I have been too often told
by kindergarten teachers and acquaintances
I should encourage you, possessive thing
to make my mind a fertile garden
where others gladly tread and grow
enjoying the gift of company.
I won't deny you give and give
gifts, certainly not, given
but giving itself—
to much of myself to others
till I don't know where I end
or they begin to touch
faded, downy extremities
hazy in late evening light.
© Fae Hilscher