Bell

Entering an empty room feels strange
When you should be there; I instinctively
Feel for your presence with my mind, and change
My humour if I miss you. You could be
Half-turned away, asleep, as long as you
Are there; if you are missing, I can tell.
And when you are I don't know what to do.
Like Pavlov's dogs reacting to a bell,
I cannot help myself: you make me glad.
Unlike them, though, I know what's symptomized:
For them the prior food that they had had,
For me, the way you've loved and sympathized
And do so still. Therefore when you are near
I know, and I'm happy for it, dear.