beggar

I don't want a million dollars
wrapped
in a smile,
a hug,
a word, or gesture,
that would be too much -
too rich a dessert
for my fragile insides
sensitive to love,

give me what you'd give
to a mute beggar
on the street,
who wears his shame
unadorned,
who makes you notice
what it takes
to be stripped
of everything
you call your own,

give me what you feel
when you become
the empty bowl
in those trembling hands,
of the one
who only asks for you
to meet him
eye to eye,
heart to heart,

give to me
like you would
in your last moment,
in your last breath
with yourself,
with me.