Disclaimer: Star Trek is the property of Paramount/Viacom. This poem is the property of and is copyright (c) 1977 by Gerry Downes. Originally published in The Sensuous Vulcan, D.T. Steiner, editor.

LOVING COMMANDS

Gerry Downes

How so like a god he is

walking on the living grass

and taking such delight

in each new world we find,

as much as if it were

his own creation.

Soft golden light shines on his face

radiant from alien suns

that kiss him now

with pure sweet starlight,

at night caressing him

with moons' reflections.

Smiling eyes have turned to mine

favoring me with his own joy

and asking me to share

this shore leave place with him,

offering me with total trust

his dear companionship.

I cannot refuse him

though I need not vacations

for he requires sometimes

my presence in affirmation

of what he knows already

but seeks to hear again.

Yes, he is beloved,

and not surprised, I see him smile,

approach me now,

hold out his hands and laugh,

"stay awhile, you'll like it here;

anyway, that's an order."