I would ask that
my skin stop boiling.
I would ask that it all
be new as crisp snow.
I would ask that
no one die.
I would ask for
another half century.
I would ask that memories
never gray and fade.
I would ask that those who once
loved me would love me again.
I would ask for fresh, warm bread.
I would ask for seconds with you.
I would ask for more gardens
and a second chance at the tomatoes.
I would ask that you read this
and not look away.
I would ask that you laugh
despite my pleadings.
I would ask that you hold my
hand and touch my cheek.
I would ask that we
have more time.
I would ask that we
have more time.
I would ask that you hold me
fast in this rushing stream.
—Excerpt from "Reunion" by Keith Woo, as it appears in "The Heavy Work of Vanishing: The Collected Poetry of Keith Woo," edited by Pi'ilani Kilani, page 271.