My “dawn is breaking” as
I take these fragile steps.
Few faces I gaze upon
Of the many present shadows,
Yours among the front row.

I could never imagine the change
Such a short acquaintance could make.

These years seem like nothing
Compared to the lifetime I want to know you.

One request before I step
Outside into that brilliant light,
Which our elders call “reality,”
Because these past four years
Weren’t real enough.

More than a name, a number,
And some generic note of well-wishings.

Those words are truly nothing
Compared to the conversations we’ve shared.

I love you, in some fashion –
You have emerged from those
Shadows who have loomed
These troublesome years beside
Us as we wander these empty halls.

You stand out in the mind,
Thus you gain a place in my heart.