welcome return

the dog has found joy
a bark has returned to her lips
and she capers
with squealing yips
to emphasise her pleasure

I also have found my pleasure
in your return

it may be true
the adage about absence and fondness
though necessarily understated

for the absence is brutal
the fondness almost a plea
for restoration

I have grown accustomed
to what we share
and its disruption
however necessary it may be
levies a toll
on my emotions

---

© Frank Prem, 2009