in speaking the truth...

She approach him on the street

he gave a smile of recognition 

and received the same in return.

He waited as she seemed to be searching 

either for words or courage or possibly both.

I need to ask you something she blurted

 but at the same time, I don’t want to ask.

I know that you will tell me the truth

and I’m not sure I’m ready for it.

Even in the asking, he recognised

he would need to present facts

without emotion and free from advice.

She asked. He thought. He spoke. She listened.

When he’d finished she looked him in the eye

and admitted she knew deep down

what he was going to say 

She thanked him for his honesty

he had tears in his eyes as she walked away

he was acutely aware of the burden there is

in speaking the truth…

Reviews

[Huw]

This happened a few years ago and the emotions are as strong now as they were then.