Face to Face

It’s a relief to be able to speak
To you like this. I had not thought when first
I heard of your tough selfishness, your weak
Will, arrogance, and insatiable thirst

For praise that opposites like us could meet.
And now I find I’m wrong and cannot move
Without hurting you. If I substantiate
These disturbing accusations I prove

Only that someone sees you not as me
But as another, whom only mirrors
Satisfy as truth. Which is to say we
See ourselves better than others see us.

So you are not selfish, weak-willed, or in
Need of praise but a careful synthesis.
It’s a relief to talk, not lose, but win,
And find myself as I am, face to face.