I Remember

I remember the sky, gray and thick.
I remember the sun, humid and harsh.
I remember my life, aimless and dull.
I remember when.

I remember your smile and that night.
The room was dense  with smoke and music.
Outside sirens came and went.
Sheets of rain scoured the skyline.
You smiled self-consciously,
unaware I was watching you.
My date and I argued throughout the night.
I remember that, as we left, all I could say to you was “hello.”

I remember days that followed.
Reading quietly together.
Sitting on the grass listening to the sky.
Making love. Making plans.
I remember the nights that followed.
Chicken vindaloo and garlic naan.
Wine from a brown paper bag.
Indiscretions. Uncertainties.
I remember waiting.
I remember wanting.

Years flew by. Faces changed.
I died and returned.
You disappeared for good.
Yet I still remember, as others do.
I remember the sky, the sun, my life, you.
I remember when.