In Closing

I came to this city when I was still young—just ten + eight

That first year was rough, determining my fate

But as the days swiftly passed, Portland softened the edges

I danced in her streets, was schooled amid green hedges

I commuted to obligations through puddle and rain

When I looked up at her gray skies, my happiness unfeigned

I worked for years in an office of pure magic

They plied me with treats and laughs, leaving was tragic

Through cars and motos and bikes I shuffled

I gained a constant companion, who liked his fur ruffled

It was sex, heartbreak, bliss, contentment I learned here

The taste of good food in my mouth, a hearty liking for beer

I know this city, she is my home

Everywhere else, I only roam

Her trees and leaves, and flowers blooming

The years ahead of me without her are looming

As I pass over the bridges my throat catches, my heart drops

I loved her, I love her, I promise to never stop