Recognition

Just now and then

I saw her again—

in the quick warmth

of a smile,

the unthinking tilt

of her head.

For a second

the years stepped aside.

The face I remembered

looked out again.

Then it was gone.

Not the same people.

Not strangers either.

Nothing needs repeating.

Nothing needs repairing.

But one thing returns

helplessly, achingly

with complete certainty.

I was right

to love her.