As You Are Now

I will take up all your tears
salty tissues through the years
spread them in the sun to dry
diamonds from each time you cry

I will treasure all your teeth
your laughter and the pearls beneath
keep them in a cardboard box
through the tickings and the tocks

I will gather all your hair
floating in the sultry air
we will make a braid of gold
for you to keep when you are old

now I kiss your milky skin
sheet of silk and soul within
put this kiss upon your brow
treasure you as you are now