what worlds
 we wandered years away
with nothing come
between
a star removed
of moments here –
as ancient ones
 to dream

of lives forgotten
plans undone –
by wishes laid aside
for destines
of fear –
a truth denied

what souls
await already –
with knowledge
of our will
they call us out –
and listen for us
still

on frigid nights
the air is charged
with stories from afar
a promise
of returning –
where we are

choosing yet
some other time –
another way we came
to know
before our knowing –
ten thousand
stars
by name

. . .