The Back of My Mind (Poetry)

I should have to smile

I should have to smile

for David, whose boots are lying near us

on a rock, one toppled over,

loosened laces, stuffed socks,

leather, size eleven.

I should have to smile for David, whose small talk

never is small

or muddled, only topples over

spilling socks, worn and warm and fitted.

I should have to smile

for David, who is tossing rocks across the water at a tree

rooted in the untamed ground,

ripened rings, branches bent,

cedar, standing still.

I should have to smile for David, who is tall

and rooted,

repelling rocks,

insignificant and gray.

I should have to smile

for David,

who calmly sits and watches water pass.