Knee Poem

It is almost like
I am perching
or like a kickstand
but it doesn't hold me up
just separates.

Ever since I can remember
it's been one knee out
like tree pose
only laying down
just to make space.

It's a habit I only broke once
for a couple of months
while we slept
knees into knees
just for a little while.

That first night you were gone
I lifted my knee up
like a warrior
defending myself
just because.

I had extra space
the length of my thigh
is what I gave you
muscles, blood, skin
just for you.