Aloft

 

Aloft

L'assemblage by Michael Douglas Jones  ©2026

Original artwork available at Gallery 322

I am not distant; I am right here, calling to you; I am an untethered balloon that moves away from where I want to go. I drop letters and drawings over the basket side to tell you, but they get caught up in the wind and drift away. I am not aloof; I am aloft, and cannot reach you.

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There is no way around it; I am a recluse. I love this world; I love people; I care deeply, but there is a deeper feeling that has always been inside of me, that keeps me inside of me. I can’t call it fear; it is deeper than that. It possesses the whole of me, but to call it phobia sounds foolish. Reaching out is the most difficult movement to make; my arms, my voice, they fail me. I reach out through my art, through my written word, to tell you how I feel, to show how much I love you.

I’m getting better, but you already know

I might never call you, though I want to know that you are well.

I might never email you, but will always give a warm reply.

I might never ask to be your facebook friend, but will eagerly confirm.

I will never stop trying to be a better friend.

I am not cold; my eyes well up with compassion complete.

I reach out to the whole world, but cannot move my hands.

If you would just give me yours;

I can be your best friend, I simply need a hand.