(after VM Straka)

We didn’t hold hands
Not really
Just rested our softness in each other’s 
Enjoying the close space between us before it grew into an ocean and a sky
We see everything around it until we see what shape is left by the gaps

When I say the shape looks like New Zealand, I mean
As much as any shape can look like a feeling
It looks comfortable
Safe
The first time I went there, I was so at peace
I’ve spent most of the time since my return trying to go back
I mean
I caught myself smiling and didn’t understand why
Until I looked around 
And saw what could be a home
So when I say you felt like home
I mean I could rest my head in the South Island crook of your neck and shoulder for a long time 
And be happy

Or when I say the shape looks like a bird, I mean
Can we learn their songs for when we do not want to sing our own?
I mean
Do you remember that note you wrote me
The one about how you were having a difficult time staying alive?
The one that ends I hope you’re doing well, sweet bird
Sending you love

I look at it sometimes 
And whistle a bird song
I mean, I look at it sometimes
And whisper to you
across an ocean and a sky
Sweet bird, the world needs your voice
Even if it shakes
Please
Stay alive, and sing

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Berent LaBrecque currently lives in Atlanta, Georgia, where he spends most of his time sending love into the universe and also eating snacks. He self-published the chapbook “Sometimes It Rains” in 2017, available from the author upon request. He thinks third person bios are weird, and probably misses you.