So much of what we are is because of abandonment. Often as reality, often as feeling. We talk but we don’t get through. Our silences are many, none find a resolution. Our words come out with warm intent, but when conjoined sound harsh. We love to death the very person we find the most fault with.   But in this morass of disintegrating hope, we are firm on continuums. We are not ready to give up. Because we know things change, people change. And no season is permanent.   And such do relationships survive.   And often, very often, they find their equilibrium. Not so much as a reconciliation, which is often there, but as an understanding. Beyond the spontaneity of an outburst, or the harshness of a habitual word, one recognises the heart, well hidden though it might be. And then everything is forgiven.   But there are times when such understandings do not emerge. And that’s when two good people are found to be excavating the worst of themselves: in relationships people discover the depths of depravity or dismay or disillusionment that they can reach.   Alas, that is what then defines us as people - everything else is forgotten.   Even if we move to the other side of the bed, we find it empty.   If you liked this poem, consider listening to these other poems which talk of the complex rhythms of relationships -  Tracing Shadows on Your Back Letting Go (because I'm alive) Of love (& other bouts of sadness) Follow me on Instagram at @sunilgivesup. Get in touch with me on [email protected]   The details of the music used in this episode are as follows - Good men do bad things by Phat Sounds Shadows of Autumn full version by Musiclfiles