if i told you
that i felt
responsible
for your happiness
what would you say?

perhaps you’d try
to hear my words
in a positive light

“he just wants me
to be happy”

but something
might nag you

“he said ‘responsible’
as if he thinks
my happiness
is really up to him”

and it’s not
it really is not

maybe
if i’m lucky
i’ll get to toss in
a pebble
or two
to help decorate
the fountain
or your happiness

maybe
if i’m really lucky
i’ll get the chance
to add a pebble
or two
each day

but your happiness
does not belong
to me

i am not
entitled to it

and i am not
responsible for it

it is yours

and i am glad
that this is so