The Second Cup

How sweet this brew, unsugared, blended tea,
Infused with my love for you, and yours for me!
So blessed, from rich estates, and Darjeeling,
Expressing so much of us, our mutual feeling.

And as the pungent liquor slowly pours,
I reflect on this love of mine, and of yours.
Our children, like the issue from the spout
Are sometimes here, but much more often, out.

So much survived, and much more shared
Leaves both of us with nerve ends bared;
And this, the gentle ritual, brewing tea
Provides for me, an essential sheltering lea:

Because your welcome presence lifts me up,
I always pour for you, the second cup!

© Michael Westcombe 2012