Joyful Ruins

I’ve named my body

Compassion

Without her

I would not feel

She is the language of my sorrows

Yes

Speaking in tears

telling me

I need touch and comfort

or shelter and rest

And she speaks in joy

my step bounces

my heart sings

Without her

I would feel nothing

Not the wind calming

not the sound of birds

not the dizzying delight

of seeing colors in a sunset

Not the bodily empathy

of seeing loved ones hurt

Without her

I couldn’t hug

sing

dance

sleep

She belongs with me

and I belong with her

And she is

Compassion