Softened
photography by Xill Fessenden
I wanted to watch us get old,
you at my side,
until we both unstiffened,
our strength more and more pliable.
I looked forward to it, each of us
mitigating, moderating, gentling.
It isn’t what unfolded.
Still, I bless and imagine you
there across the globe,
your new someone at your side,
easing your armor off,
your steps softened to trust.
©Susa Silvermarie 2025
Beautiful!!!!