have you noticed it too? 

the softening 

that happens 

when you look at someone 

over so many years

once harsh features 

now gloopy 

so gentle 

a bit whispered 

do you know

your nose turns up 

and spreads out  

when you close teeth smile

do you realize 

you hold your head back 

when i make you laugh

do you sense 

that you don't show your teeth 

when you feel 

something truly 

in its edges and curves  

it's the stifled ecstasy