If you knew me the way

that I’d want you to know me,

then you would understand

exactly what I’m getting at

when I say, “Hi.”

If you felt the same way

about the universe

as I thought you did

when I first saw you

in your peasant dress

and wrestler boots

then this conversation

would be unnecessary

and I could explain it all

with a simple mutterance.

…

“Bye.”