Two on Union

         by Susan Stevens

	I.  Reunion Koan

		One world at a time.

			—Thoreau

		Children, one earthly Thing
		truly experienced, even once,
		is enough for a lifetime.

			—Rilke

		One real world is enough.

			—Santayana


	It must be, since it took only one
	to make the circle back into yours.
	Once seems enough for nearly everything:
	one child, one published book of poems, one nuptial tie—	
	and really, once to take your hand in greeting
	must be that earthly Thing. For me it is enough.
	"Must it be?" asked Beethoven, then added, "It must be."



	II.  Intermittence

		is how we do it:  and even then,
		sure and familiar exceedingly fast,
		every thirty-six years—maybe when
		we know enough at last               

		—when at last it happens.  So find
		me, then, again and again, to let what's said
		play counterpoint in fitful minds
		like ours, rather than abed.