A Hug in the Kitchen

Approached by your slow stumble from behind,
Your darkness weighing you down like a boulder,
I felt your heavy touch and turned to find
Your dark-haired head there pressing on my shoulder.

I wrapped my arms around your burdened back
While yours just drooped and dangled by your side.
You leaned your body, wounded by today’s attack,
On me. I couldn’t hold you, but I tried.

I braced myself for your depressed collapse, and
Adjusted so that I could hold you longer.
My Love, when you’re worn out and cannot stand,
Just count on me and let me make you stronger.

That hug, there in the kitchen, bitter-sweet,
Felt like a win among the day’s defeat.