A figure, stern and cold,

receives a laurel leaf with surprise.

No introduction, no warmth exchanged

                . . . just the reality of presence

                 the edge of diffidence . . .

The leaf, tender and green

rests lightly in their hand

a symbol of honour, unspoken worth.

In its quiet embrace,

               a connection begins to form;

bridging the divide of understanding.

The caustic words, the guarded heart,

begin to soften in the face of one gesture.

The laurel invites a new beginning,

a chance to be seen, to be known

beyond the barriers of silence.