Painting is watercolor on paper, 1989. 12" x 16" Abstract Number 6 of 6 For those of you who have noticed that this is a series of six paintings and six poems, you may like to know that this last one is a bit of a departure. I have a musician friend who wrote this great song, and asked me if I wanted to write some lyrics for it. This is the result. It's one of those projects that got started and never got finished. He's off doing seven more things, the vocalist is doing local gigs most weekends, and I've started other stuff as well. I'm sure most of you know how that sort of thing goes! It was a great idea, and I absolutely LOVE his music, and maybe someday we'll finish this. And maybe we won't. Music is very personal. What we like and what we don't like - it's a mystery, isn't it? You can hear some of my friend's work (although not THIS song!) at www.kirstencook.com My favorite song that's available at that site is "Sands." My friend writes and performs the music, and his lovely wife sings. I assure you - your little computer speakers won't do it justice, but listen anyway - it's good stuff! GROWTH When I was younger And thought I should marry, I made some poor choices Didn't know any better. I could not imagine Life without tension. Walking on eggshells, I changed my behavior. I attracted the ones Who sought to control me, Watched me each moment, Every action was suspect. Did I talk too long To somebody else? Perhaps I was looking. Perhaps I was cheating. If I took time for myself Or time with another, If I needed some space, I'd better have a reason. Who would I be with, And what would I be doing? Didn't matter who it was, Just watch me and vet my friends. I never felt safe, Nobody in my corner When I acted happy I saw their suspicion I looked out for myself Nobody else would do it I had to be vigilant and strong. Now I'm much older, Don't need all that drama. I've been there and done that, Survived all the bad times. Though I can imagine My life without you, I'd just rather not - You're all I could hope for. We both have friends Who love and support us So when we come together We're healthy and balanced. You don't second-guess me, You trust what I tell you. You're the love of my life, I'm so happy to have you. If I need time for myself Or time with another, When I want some space I don't need a reason. If I'm having fun, You're glad that I'm happy You want me to thrive, I'm the luckiest woman on earth. I always feel safe With you in my corner. No matter what comes I know I can trust you, 'Cause you care about me, You love who I am And I know I can count on you.