The bursting, buried heart of a young one standing

beside you

and the rhythm in your chest syncopates with theirs.

Tears and understanding stir

yet none but listening

and presence

can be true offering,

if even that.

Their northstar guides them, thick and heavy

as the overgrown path may be.

Stand with them

at whatever distance.

Sentinels have always been needed.

The magnetic pull of all who’ve navigated

through murk and darkness

is timeless.

Stand by.