*** Into this, I pour out my thoughts and emotions. My pen bleeds ink without compassion. My paper stained with blood, not out of guilt, but contrition. This is for all the birthdays I was away For all the tears I could have saved For all the smiles I could have savored where words wouldn't convey. You are you, I am I, But heaven knows I can't say bye. To that smile that hides thoughts, happy, sad, or sly. So all I can say is I'm sorry. For not being there, For not landing an ear, For my shoulders being elsewhere, For all the burdens I could have made lighter, I'm sorry. I can't find the words, they elude me. I said you abandoned me, But i phased through you, Ignoring your existence And undermining your presence I'm sorry. If these lines can't reach you let them be in my arms at last A quiet bridge across all missed days May this ink carry the weight of my words unsaid. ***