Just Around the Bend

Sometimes I feel it is almost there
brushing fingertips of questing hand
It slips my grasp; disappearing with a laugh
with a rustle in the passing breeze.

Sometimes I hurry, knowing it waits
just around the next corner
and often when I quickly turn around
a skilful shadow conceals itself.

When I have stopped, sometimes dejected
and resolved to abandon fruitless pursuit
in the beckoning mists ahead
it pulls me, unwilling yet enthralled.

I tell myself " treasure this"
when I fancy I have found it
in the hint of frown in the child's brow
as she prises the cap off forbidden bottle
in the glint of affection repaid
in crinkled grandmother's eyes
in the pleasant unwinding of mind and sinew
taxed by a now complete job
in the letting go of conscious will,
to fall into enticing arms of alcoholic stupor
in her soft sigh, as drowsily sated,
she nestles in the crook of my arm.
The moment passes.
Life intrudes.

Just that missing piece of the puzzle
just that word that will give meaning
the hand that will push away the veil.
and the key that will open the door.

Reason tells me I will never attain
that to which I cannot even give a name
Joy ? Peace ? Contentment ?
Fulfillment of that empty space inside
I know it awaits me
that perfect, elusive moment.