Not Asleep

Child, I am not asleep
I have only closed my eyes...
To see you more clearly
To listen to you more acutely
To know you more fully

And know this –
Having closed my eyes...
I will never be unsighted
I will never be side-lined
And never blindsided

By closing my eyes – as no statue ever could –
I will always distinguish the quiet from the loud...
Your meanings from your words
Your deeds from your claims
Your confessions from your protestations

I am not asleep, Child...
I have only closed my eyes
And with my eyes closed
I will always see you
And see you better.