Butterfly

In a dream you were
a fragile butterfly
with rainbow wings that shone
against a soft, blue sky

I longed to hold you then
in my trembling hands,
to let your golden light
fill this empty man.

But when I touched you, though,
oh, so tenderly,
your damaged wings lie still,
your flight but memory.

I awoke and knew
why I fear telling you,
the words I know are true,
I love you.