men who love at times feel crushed

by ‘failure’ to protect beloveds

from terrifying health issues

they cannot control

problems breathing, chest pain

sudden loss of vision

blinding headaches

“Oh, there’s nothing wrong with you”

is more a wish than condemnation

however unfeeling it may seem

denial is their unconscious dealing

with their own aching disquiet rather

than admit that the one they adore

needs their comfort and assurance