Surface and Depth

(For Rêveries, in response to The Depth of the Well that Feeds Me. )

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She not only tasted from the well
But came to experience the depth
The comfort and warmth found when
Reaching all the way down
I can find no doubt in my imagination she
Recognized and deserved her great fortune 

What I can speak on with greatest certainty is
How water on friendship’s tongue
Tastes different to be sure, sweet but delicate
From closer to the surface, touched by many things
Affected by what’s above and around
Disturbed by gentler forces 

You hear worry in my tone
In questions worded and not
You hear echoes of past lessons that 
Instilled apprehension and caution
Like the fear at sea that one misstep
Will lead me to fall overboard  

With every question put to you answered
Every shared darkness illuminated 
Every voiced fear countered
Soothing cups offer awareness that
Reaches a little further down
The depth of the well that feeds you

Never wanting to only take
Insisting on giving in turn
I offer whatever amounts I can
Of the best water I can find in me
Tripping and spilling all the way
To that deep well that feeds you

May any chosen to not only
Taste from and experience that well
But also learn the warmth of its depth
Reaching all the way down
Finding the loyalty of what’s always there
Recognize and deserve their great fortune 

May I always be able to touch the water’s surface
May you always accept an extended hand
Carrying as many cups as I can offer in return
And my dearest friend
May the deep well that feeds you 
Never run dry for as long as you live

October 19, 2024