There Is An Instant
     (for Mahoud Kianush)

there is an instant
where words cease to exist
where time is suspended
where consciousness disappears

it comes when i least expect it
when i am totally unprepared for its presence
when i would prefer solitude as a companion
when i give way to its inevitable consequence

the lines roll from my hand
to smolder and set the words ablaze
the lines roll from my dreams
to cover a thirsty soul with a wave

the lines come not from the mouth
but from the spirit and the heart
told in whispers like ancient stories
the lines come and then depart

they come when i least expect it
when i am totally unprepared for their intrusion
when i would prefer seclusion as a companion
when i give way to their inevitable conclusion

there is an instant
and when it comes
i am no longer alone