Brother
I am lying in bed beside you
on my side of the line
which you so kindly drew,
imaginary, of course, but real for sure.
Don’t touch me you say,
so I lie quietly waiting
till you fall asleep
and I can hear you gently breathing.
Softly I place my arm on your back
you continue to sleep, rhythmically
and oblivious of my arm
bravely curled around you.
In the morning I wake up
and find you holding me
wrapped in your arms
and I feel safe there.
Now I dream of those nights
as my cancer keeps me awake
and I’m glad that you are
still here caring for me.
