How few the moments when she’s near
To brush away some errant hair,
To laugh with me at some small thing,
To love me by remembering.

Unlike the other woman --- who
Has very little else to do.

How sad that she forgets to say
The simple word that starts my day,
Forgets to touch some silver bell
That tolls to say all will be well.

Unlike the other woman --- who
Perceives at once each wordless cue.