Sanction

By Tobi Cogswell

Because I stand at the kitchen window slicing tomatoes.
Because my fingertips are numb as always.
Because you fasten my necklace because I can’t.
Because your hands are broad and brown and gentle

Because birds are in the nest outside the front door.
Because you drink the olive oil from the tomato bowl.
Because we have no fountain, but we believe we have one.
Because the kitchen is painted Honeymoon Yellow.

Because I lift my hair on the back of my neck.
Because you say you will kiss me in any and all lights.
Because the evening clouds are sashed bronze from the fires.
Because you are a man of your word.

Previously published in Main Channel Voices, Fall 2009