Almost

I almost love without the fear,

But the past still lingers, sharp and near.

Each touch I give, a shadowed plea,

Of what I want but cannot be.

I almost hold without regret,

But history whispers, don’t forget.

The echoes inside still split me wide,

Even as I long to stay, not hide.

I almost give my all away,

But another name won’t let me stay.

Hope fractured, torn in two

One part with me, one lost to you.

I almost find a tender place,

But sorrow’s fingerprints still trace.

The intimacy I crave to feel

Becomes an echo, never real.

I almost love, I almost mend,

But “almost” lingers, without end.

A song unfinished, soft and raw

I reach for love but feel its flaw.