In raintime we walk
hunched over, curled over
our bodies’ warm centers,
our hands clutching each other
in supplication and love

for the one hidden between them,
staring between our fingers
at static sky, at gutter rapids
and whirlpools in grates.

Hold them up in spite
of the rain. Let them feel it.
Hold them up in spite
of yourself. Let it soak them through.
Hold them up in spite
of it all. Let them know rain.