When Labyrinths Were Lovely Too. Poem by RIC BASTASA

have respect
for the phenomenon of
presence
for that which is here
and for that which we have conceived
to be true and yet to come.

do not say any word for
that dignity of silence
do not disturb the peace
of the faded past, its soul
rested, its last soil covered
with stones.

have respect for what appears
and for what disappears
just stay there and be seated
like a guest
keep your eyes open
keep the secrets of those
labyrinths,
and if you leave for some
other place or for someone
that you think you can love
and value forever,
close the door
and leave the key
in the same spot
where i first know
you
when i first kissed you
when i first
shared the
intricate veil with
you
when labyrinths
were lovely too.