Alert

I watch shadows while
I walk, willing energy 
into a forcefield. 

Cambodia

Siem Reap

Reunited with 
pieces of my heart, thank you
for the affection. 

Battambang

Reunited with
pieces of my heart, but I'm
leaving more behind. 

Phnom Penh

Reunited with
pieces of my heart, thank you
for hosting with care.

Border Crossings [Reprise]

I'll follow your lead,
kiss you goodbye at the bus,
walk away blushing. 

My own boldness can 
surprise even me sometimes, 
for better, for worse. 

But if you assume
my heart is available
know that it is split. 

Love born from friendship
and cemented over years,
a blessing and curse. 

They're still as water, 
merciful and merciless
below their surface. 

I would drown and breathe
equally in their embrace, 
and relish it all.

Border Crossings

With your brown sugar skin
and coy smile tucked behind
words wielded like caresses, 
you thawed Winter, honored
my emerging Spring flowers. 

I'll plant soft goodbyes on
clouds and tender lips alike, 
whisper prayers to the Wind. 

May the Sun guide you home,
for warmth is where the heart is. 

May the Moon shine hope on
whatever shapes your fears. 

And may the Stars continue 
to seek shelter in your eyes, 
for there is no greater gift
than to be witnessed.