Before you would go (4)

If I do not tell you,
you will always doubt
It feels important that you know,
really know, without ambiguity

For even if we are connected
on a soul level
or energetically
and, sometimes even, telepathically

It is hard to trust
the unusual
the unseen
the undocumented

I do not tell you this
to create an obligation
or any awkwardness
only to ensure you know

I wish to draw you close
to hold, comfort and protect you
to play, laugh and joke with you
to plan, work and create with you
to stand in loss and grieve with you
to succeed and celebrate with you
to be with you and love you
for this lifetime and the next

Even so
You
Remain
Free

Yes, you are truly free
Do as you wish
. . . as you need
. . . as you will

I do not judge
or begrudge
you or
your choices

Your life and your path
are entirely, unconditionally
your own
Do as you must

While I rejoice in your company
and would joyfully travel with you
I will honor your desire
to go it alone or with another

If now our paths diverge
Remember me
my friend, my love
my soul