For Raphael

Though you hurt
my need for pain
is near complete
Yes, I admit
I was insane
before we met
but my love for you
is filtered through
your mental health

A fool to think
I could beat the odds
and carry you
through fire
A liar told me
you were weak
No, a jackal
playing dead

You were and are
the only one
I've ever loved
completely
and though you took
some part of that
you cannot have
infinity

As the year
begins to fade
hold me to
warm shoulder blades
nice and tight
to keep me safe
when Saturn's rings
disappear...