​How I Remember You
 
Standing by a fencepost, puzzled, 
Dazzled by its grains worn smooth
 
From the hairy hides of cows pressing
Against the post as they pass, red white-faced 
 
Herefords, quiet when they walk but for the
Dry hoof-clack in summer, the high-pitched squeak 
 
Of frozen snow under-hoof in winter.
Here you stand beside the corner post
 
More exposed than most, harvesting your 
Delight in the surprise of smoothness, coming 
 
From whatever rough edge has afflicted someone,
Maybe you, your cheek or your palm warmed
 
By the sun-warmed smooth place, your gaze fixed there,
As though your life depends on it.