I have discovered
a new constellation
that never sets
below the horizon.
even during the day
I navigate my way
by the five points
that curve into an arch
its apex centered on
the bridge of your nose.
when I am lost
I have only to gaze
upon your face
to find my way.

smiling does not come
naturally to me
it is often a very
conscious decision
a deliberate weighing
of when to smile
whom to smile at
what type of smile to employ
how long to hold the smile

you were standing
at the northwest corner
of 12th and Broadway
waiting for me to emerge
from the BART station

I saw you two seconds
before you saw me
our eyes met
and in that moment
the decision was
no longer mine