So sometimes, I still double back,
To these little pretty things-
Where I entwine my written words
with depictive new meanings.

Happy birthday, I must first say
To my Albanian commerce kid.
When we met, then when I left, I
always appreciated all you did.
Next comes the apologizes, I'm sure you know what for
The fact that you showed up, for me?
Confirms it even more:

Julia Kruja, you're an incredible person- such a beautiful soul,
Its a blessing to call you 'friend', and remain someone you know.
With unconditional support- unwavering sincerity
whichever way things go.
Despite my lack of clarity, selfishness and pain- you're always there to meet with me, make plans again and again.

You instill this worth back in my soul, by treating me the same- removing judgement from your heart,
Regifting hope inside my brain.

Happy Belated Birthday my friend

I still recall quite well
the stairs I had to walk
an odd site I thought
to myself at first

Up to the first floor
completely in the dark
we walked cautiously
careful not to miss a step

It wasn't a large room
in fact it was relatively small
a restroom to my right
the kitchen straight ahead

And tables to my left
we found ourselves a table
the place was scarcely decorated
yet very depictive of its genre

The lights were dim
little red lanterns
randomly scattered about
emitting a faint glow

I remember the smell
of noodles rice and fish
of soy sauce, fried foods
and sizzling beef as well

A blast of scents
flooded my senses
streaming in through my nose
making my mouth water

With anticipation
as my intense hunger
overtook me
I imagined extreme flavors


The temperature was not too hot
and it was not too cold
It was just right
I smiled to myself

Contentment filled my body
the atmosphere put me at ease
I glimpsed over my shoulder
and saw her turn to me


I attempted to study her
what was once an easy read
however, became a book that I
had never even seen before

Something was not right
Her eyes they did not shift
pupils did not dilate
she didn't even twitch

a realization hit me
she was left unaffected
by my searching eyes
no reaction to my action

the lights became dimmer
making the room turn dark
the four walls closed in
I felt myself suffocate

Food became sour in my mouth
Aromas became intoxicating
Gone was the peaceful tranquility
that I had associated with this place