Tenderness

Isn't it tenderness, we all seek?

That touch of hand, little brush of a cheek

Isn't tenderness all that I have left to give?

My gut's been chewing at itself for as long as I have lived

I am the embroidered detail on your shirt's collar

I am the night lamp left on for my sister's daughter

I'm the inner pocket in your worn down leather jacket

I'm the flicker in the night sky, obscured by city lights

My load is heavy and there's nowhere to rest

If I had lost my voice that day I'd get it off my chest

Isn't it tenderness, we all seek?

Somewhere between the words we choose and thoughts we can't reveal

I am the tiny seed you sow, cover me with soil

I'm the archer on the lookout when the waves hit the shore

I'm the kid in the corner, head facing the wall

But underneath the sheepskin, I am hungry for it all

I am not the only one