It can snow at the end of April
and people can find meaning
in travel to distant landscapes,
and unexpected lights of recognition
can travel between eyes

We are tentative like strangers,
careful not to offend,
we keep our yearning to feel like family
tucked deep, lest we engender
discomfort at our vulnerability

We think we sense
affection and appreciation,
we hope that we convey it,
not sure how to get beyond
the stiff hugs, the watchful smiles.
But we’re hopeful —
it can snow at the end of April
and it can thaw before May.

©Wendy Mulhern
April 30, 2017