POEM: Michael to the Power of Two

Michael to the Power of Two
Michael Newman and Michael Smith on their wedding day
                     May 2, 2009

Getting married late
after Being married long
          You Get at last,
          Michaels too
what others get  early
toss off lightly as our due:
ritual, symbol, celebrant
          this witnessing-with-love-community
          most precious by far.

You are Getting late,
Michaels two, dearly
what some get early,
toss off lightly as our due:
          power-with-all
          accruing to the marriage
                  of two.

Getting married late
 after long years of Being
          lovers, friends
           companions
          for the long road.

Oh, the delight of Being with you
Michaels two as you Get now
what you have given long:
Michael to the Power of Two love
lavished on so many
          as food,
          in flowers,
          homes made beautiful,
          at sickbed vigils,
          in listening long.

Oh, the circles you've created,
Michaels two,
for marking seasons
welcoming  children
for marrying and burying--

Sweetest men, we thank you long
delight with you now
witnessing you
Getting at last,
what you have Created together:

Circle of love
       to the
Power of Many.

Mary Pierce Brosmer