When I didn't have you

When I didn’t have you

I loved Nature like a calm monk loves Christ...

Now I love Nature

Like a calm monk loves the Virgin Mary,

Religiously, in my way, like before,

But in another way more moving and nearer.

I see the rivers better when I go with you

Through the fields to the riversides;

Sitting at your side looking at clouds

I look at them better...

You didn’t take me from Nature...

You didn’t change Nature for me...

You brought Nature right next to me.

Because you exist I see it better, but the same,

Because you love me, I love it the same, but more,

Because you chose me to have you and love you,

My eyes stare at everything more lingeringly.

I don’t regret anything I used to be

Because I’m still the same.

I only regret not having loved you.

Put your hands in mine

And let’s keep quiet, surrounded by life.

1914.6.7