I remember the first time we met,
Sitting in a circle of patched up people.
Listening to Patrick’s talk on how he beat ball – cancer
And wishing we might be as lucky too!
I remember catching your gaze and then looking away.
Our first awkward conversation flowering
Into those long enjoyable phone calls about An Imperial Infliction.
When you touched my cheek at the picnic, so gently,
I hesitated – knowing I was a bomb without a timer.
Primed to hurt you – but you wouldn’t let me go.
And I loved you for that.
On that dreadful day, you watched the nurses drain
The dark cancer water from my lungs.
My silent supporter, jealous of each second of separation.
But we won in the end,
For in Amsterdam we lived a whole life-time of love
In three hectic days.
I’m grateful for the ‘little infinity’ we shared
And I did like my choice, Gus, I did.
