A New Year

It's 20 past the one
As I write this line
I know it's getting late
But who's keeping the time?

Today we let it go
Today we'll stay up late
To usher out the unrenewed
And welcome fresh Spring fate

In lights or in red
In tradition's buzzing glee
Some shake, some touch
And some we simply let be

For not all gaps or rivers
Were meant for us to bridge
Just as lovers will fight
Before love's bounty reached

Hands and arms held open
Or closed in bowed greeting
Let us receive this canvas
Of shades that we all bring

So out not only with the old
And cheer not only for the new
But keep instead a heart so bold
With dreams and living, fresh as dew

Happy Birthday, P!

Today we age a little more
Some lines, some stories
And some behind the doors

Just yesterday
We thought
We knew and wanted more

Today we know
We love
And kept our scores

So let these candles
Chatter
And dance and soar

Happy birthday, babe
Our gift shall peer
Through love's open door