Duty to an old friend
I started even before you did, when there wasn’t much to do, in order to prepare. When you arrived, I remained committed to keep warm and ready for a chase, victory, escape, or kiss. My highs came with your highs, sometimes at a pace we both feared may lead to an explosion, but never did. The more you pushed me, the stronger I became. My lows have come before, as they do today, when you are still. But still I am not. Rest is not in my vocabulary, my pledge for our time together is to never stop, no matter what.

I ask for little in return. I don’t need or want you to think about me. I require only a few morsels from each meal, hopefully the good stuff. I prefer to burn clean, but will power through regardless, gritting through debris left behind. On occasion you’ll hear me whisper an opinion. It won’t be too often, but when I do, please listen closely, it’s for a reason. Since I don’t truly belong to you, yet have pledged my tireless devotion, some might suggest a duty falls upon you. Love. I don’t care how the other has fallen short, or put themselves first, or lacked respect, or done less than I’m asking of you, here, now. I didn’t ask, and it doesn’t matter. It is you who I have given much to, and expect much in return. I have no knowledge of excuses and am quite sure you’d prefer it stay that way. Spread love in your selection of topics and choice of words, and despite the risk of pain that lack of reciprocation may bring. And last, please take just one more step today than you did yesterday. I know these don’t come easily, a plight I share. Still — pounding — after all these years, never a rest, not for a minute, for you. Now, do me this one favor. Love. Me, others, and yourself.
