down to a whisper

how is it now i need your hand so dearly.
how a simple sickness brings me down to whisper.
you gesture with things all too good
for a man to deserve.
so bless your loving heart, but
i could hardly stand to see you quite so pale.
to do those kind things,
looking into your eyes.

but my dear, i’ll be there
as the years cast off youth,
as the lines pull low, and
with a kiss, i’ll swear not to go
before you.

if it happens
that i can hold it off.
may God do us this good thing
that I lie down later.
and watch you go so that you
may not see such pain,
as the one who waits a bit longer.