I wait for pathways to emerge

in the fog before me.

I stand still and erect.

Inching forward,

I take a breath (very deep)

I hold out my hand.

Tentative yet determined,

quiet,

I say your name.

Patiently I listen

for the reply that may

or may not

come.

I exercise my fledgling trust

that this blind deafness will not last.

Meanwhile,

listening,

warmth and

backbone

are my guides.