beenawhile This poem contains characters created by George Lucas and owned by Lucasfilm Ltd. No money in being earned and no infringement is intended. Please don't sue, because I'm just a poor college student and have no money.

Distribute as you wish, with disclaimer intact, but please contact me before posting it on another web page. OK? I also must deny permission for this to be posted on any pages that are listed with the "fans.starwars.com" url. I welcome any, and all constructive comments to me at: swbriatharen@yahoo.com :~) You can find my website at the following location: http://fly.to/brias/

Dedicated to sweetheart for helping me with photos in the past and for previewing this for me. :)

Author's note: Here is my long over-due Balance Point poem from Han's POV. It's a sequel to 'One More Chance,' Leia's Balance Point POV poem. Also, I've been hearing "It's Been a While" so much lately, and in fact it is what inspired me to finally write this. :)

It's Been a While
by Bria
Wednesday, October 3, 2001

How long has it been?
It's been a while.
Since I was with her; really with her.
Not just standing beside her, or talking to her.
But *with* her.

Sure, I've been through a lot.
But that's still no excuse.
She's been through just as much lately
And thanks to me, even more.
It shouldn't' have take this to make me see that.

How long has it been since I held her?
How long since I told her I loved her?
I'm ashamed to say it, but...
It's been a while.
Too long; way too long.

But enough with that.
Today, right now, that changes.
It can't wait a minute more.
I've ran from my troubles too much lately.
I'll face them head on, like I've always done.

"Leia, I love you."