Thought of You

The thought of you becomes a presence
That I cannot reconcile
Deep slow-burning incandescence
Like a soft, eternal smile

Searing me with painful pleasure
Inextricable torment
As I guard this tender treasure
In a bittersweet lament

The thought of you becomes a yearning
Aching deep down in my soul
From which there is no returning
And poetry cannot console

Sweet and warm intoxication
Sun and shadow softly blend
Peaceful, powerful vexation
Is the thought of you, my friend

J~