All seemed of beauty's equal worth, and yet
one clearly stood out, so close at hand
perhaps somewhat shyer, hair dark-brunet
caught my eye, my interest - heart rendered there
til first-love gave birth - future lives would share.
February 12, 1997

Gave a vibrant color, like reflected from the sun
of course, had only looked once or twice
but then ventured another gaze, maybe just for fun
making sure would accept it - as nice.

When below those eyes, noticed brief hint of smile
enough allowing me, to risk another glance
then those pretty eyes, suddenly changed their style
as green-gray shifted - took on their romantic stance.

Stunned me like a sudden clap of January thunder
then someone called me, to know I could not stay
never again to view their hidden beauty - birthed me wonder
remembering how blue can change - because of gray.

Of course that last verse, filled with poetic lies
in later times, those eyes lured me to wed
making once half-me - into one whole.

Such the power of looking into one's eyes
when aided by lips, should their smile spread
as all future aims slowly change - their goal.

BUT ENOUGH
Life soon swung through brief years, her early death took away
only memories retell, what those eyes now can never say
as life's glint grew dim, in those eyes - green-blue tinged with gray.
October 23, 1998

That aria’s melody yet echoes love for me
powerful, passionate, pleading - enrapturingly.

Some years later, finally met one loved to wed
how she enthralled me, til by her love was led
those early times, when young love felt strong
again oft sang - that former love-song.

Til one day, told of its first-singing in my heart
with fearful dreadings, of what those word might impart
for had asked her, if my present singing of this tune
pleased her, in spite of its origin - from love’s early June.

Then with pleasure pure and true, she cooed gentle like a dove
firmly assuring me with what she spoke - Its you I love
for if what you now sing, truly tells of what you feel
then when sung to me, by your love - I know it but real.

Oh sweet lesson learned, depths - love may plumb
love’s strength she made clear, such left me numb
not so much how one loves, but that it be true
no matter how love shown - but that it be you!

For love not what be told, given, its worth nor pleasure
that, anyone else could give - shows not its true measure
but ultimately, whom the person you are - is to them
tis one’s Spirit that is loved - not the flower on its stem.

Yes, that is true love - worth price of one’s whole life
such be that treasured hope, when one takes a wife
far more than Time may gift, by chance - choice or strife.

So remember the arias, with their empassioned plea
as voicie your love with sweet ariettas, out-sung to she
a repertory need, if one is to woo by serenade
singing passionate love songs - as stand beneath her balustrade.
January 7, 1999

Like say Hello, as suddenly seen or came to view
just a simple greeting given, perhaps would often use
spontaneous expression of olden words still found to brew
just a gentle silly after-done, to a loved-one - that you lose.

Oft said by those now widowed-out alone
she that made you whole, now fled - Heaven flown
full-happy for her there in that far-off zone
old habits with thoughts of her, of such - still prone.

Has never made reply, for me to know she heard
a one-way communique, only I speak the word
yet within my heart and soul, softly know she cares
a silly bit of love-game played - widowhood dares.
July 31, 1999

And so in that late Spring of my trusting
fashioned love's full worth - beyond mere lusting.

In burning Summer of my dreams
ripened friendships, flushed from life's trail
those met, revealed their hopeful schemes
shared what drew them on - though might fail.

And so in that bright Summer of my dreams
true friendships gave - shared their friendly themes.

In yellowed Autumn of my love
brooded on life's melancholy ways
joys mixed with pain, forgiveness brought
what our Spirit truly seeks - love saves.

And so in golden Autumn of my love
lies a fuller life - than ever dreamt of.

In ravaged Winters of my hopes
felt cold barrenness, life growing stale
age casts with uncertainties, by which one copes
life-after blooms true - beyond Death's pale.

Within that howling waste, of cold Winter's fading hopes
found life ends not, more lies - beyond those distant slopes.
October 2, 1999

Yet held a secret love for one he knew
til Time cast a redemptive cause to brew
nobled act for one, liked as a brother
lastly laid down his life - for another.

Saved both friend and wife - was she he adored
double-deed done for both, as their reward
redeemed himself and them, with his final plan
trusting Truth - no greater love hath any man.

All explained with immortal words out-spoke
words that clutch the heart, catch within one's throat
Tis a far, far better thing I do than ever done
tis a far, far better life I gain - with what I've won.

Encapsulating in two brief lines, full-worth of human love
what one has earthly-done, what will obtain - thereafter of
succinctly declaring two greatest hopes, each one ought strive for
hope for selfless love, thence eternal life - by such words he swore.

The Arts need for us, its lilt and lift of laughter
depths of life's beauty, richness now and  hereafter
awakens feelings haunting every human heart
crafted by brush and pen, dreams gifted - old minds chart.

But beyond this common fare, practiced study earned
that lasting need to enlighten the mind - deep-learned
not works one has plagiarized, nor cheaply stole
but lasting hopes each wants - Art's most sacred goal.
October 9, 1999

Late November day, stood by your grave in silence
earth-mound fully grass-healed, with arched profilence
sad winds whispered secrets, my heart yearned to hear
yet only an emptiness - echoed in my ear.

Thought how suddenly you died, that final moment knelled
not one tweak of you sensed since, your arms unheld
only precious memories inly clasped - heart-dwelled.

Reflecting on what our togethered years still teach
feeling that warmth, empty arms can never reach
hearing those ancient words, passing centuries preach
for in the end, tis but love - one's last worth of each.
November 8, 1999

Was then you knew as always have, how much he cared
rather than words, chose one brief touch - telling you
for oft a simple touch, tells far more than words shared
touch met with eyes, silently spoke - then you knew.
December 18, 1999

Those attending settled back, give ear to what would play
her nervousness now suppressed, eyes held on music’s score
nimble fingers splayed on ivoried keys, began to stray
further on as such required - pedals flexed to floor.

What she had worn, type of dress, color-scheme - things that women note
have no imaged-clues to draw upon, to make that scene complete
but twenty minutes she played, music launched our hearts to float
found inadvertently, unlike me - taken an up-front seat!

Although ears joyed what she played, was my heart that heard
entranced, not so much by gifting notes her fingers gave
but strange touch of mysteries, that before had never stirred
resonating upon strings - unfound on music’s stave.

Unremember what piece was played, nor why performed
yet see her feet, head, eyes and hands - but now transformed
thirty years of marriage, sad Death lately taken down
though deceased, such memories beauty holds - still tightly bound.
December 25, 1999

Only hopes surround your life, those your mother cast
first - of health, full-mind, fashion life as one longly last
second - name thoughtfully given, gender taken into account
unknowing all spread before you - future years must surmount.

Bloom of late pregnancy, still glows in mother’s face
ruddy health wrought of pure beauty, her love will grace
as maternal bonding evolves, between she and you
human linkage of ageless love - wearing long years through.

Mother’s clasp of cradled bundle, as if most precious on Earth
like One mangered long ago depicted, Mary brought to birth
a tender event my eyes caught, afterwards - heart longly dwelled
one deeply imbedded beneath swaddling clothes - tenderly held.
February 18, 2000

Was then a small child (was poor Peggy) finally began to cry
first-grader could not zip up her coat, no matter how hard she’d try
was Sister who came to her rescue, there knelt down to find out why
much as a mother might well do - her nimble fingers brought by.

With soothing words to comfort her, finally got that zipper to go
with tender smile and wimpled sleeve, she dried up Peggy’s tearful flow
then rising with gentle laugh, leaned back down - kissed Peggy on the nose
assuring her some inner confidence - showing how love's caring goes.

Thence led her to the door, saying goodby - all done to show her love
such tenderings daily done by thousands, yet so few - knowing of!
March 16, 2000

Sixty years ago, that mother stood with hair not gray
was she who brushed girl’s hair, now tis the other way
life taking turns, recast the same - with sad regrets
for old age changed them both, tis of such - love begets.
March 22, 2000

A priceless picture, imaging ancient mysteries life unfolds
a paragon of caring love - humanity still upholds.
April 6, 2000

Could a field such as we were, but of dust untilled
would it yield what was loud-acclaimed, proud hopes fulfilled
should its shield fend-off Time’s arrows, as if unquilled
for each both stood, to lose or gain all - if we but willed.

Such it began then became, to last until the end
thereafter self-seeds itself, love's innate powers lend
outgrows Time beyond place of Space, yet never ends
despite Death ravaged what it could - yet still we are friends.

Yea, all of this and much more - both co-linked together
bonded two into one, no force can now dissever
waged its wearage with convictions, each vowed forever
our bondage unquestioned, eternal - not of whether.
April 7, 2000

Thought of our beginning, your brightsome curtsy brought
graceful bow with flushing face, trapped me as one caught
each life sharing, revealing what both loves taught
til shape and form knelled by Death - your bonnie bow firstly wrought.

Only widows surmise, how Death steals love away
love’s early years surprised, but in the end - brings but dismay
not true for you and I, of our love - your curtsy yet conveys
its cherished obeisance, still enraptures me - by its forté.
April 15, 2000

No prior notice given, comes out of the blue
like an angelic feather loft from Heaven’s sky
firmly caught and known, since especially sent by you
enriching now and long after - old love brings by!
April 20, 2000

When days wore mid-way, dreams that had to be
idle stream-side sat beneath a shading tree
watched a strutting crow now with family, like me
again re-lived dreams of whom became - that she.

When days wasted into night, with few dreams yet to be
as lazed a-porch, remembering that once-viewed sea
unlike curled cat at my side, know life extracts a fee
drifting midst those forgotten dreams, for now without - that she.
April 30, 2000

Stepped to window, told with pointed finger’s aim
she watched my eyes and hand, then had pointed too
fashioned some idea, perhaps seen as a game
treasured your trust of me - tore my heart in two.

Have met others before, whose hungered arms wished embraced
tender one welcomed, seeking some want - hoped emplaced
a human gesture of trust, vulnerability risked free
but never one so young nor prettily - as Marie.

When eager arms and face, showed their trust - given willingly
humans expressing faith, hope and love - striven thrillingly.

THEN THOUGHT
Pains of war, love’s neglect, stealth of words - but hollow echoes lost
thence one knows deeper truths of Human Spirit, worth all life's cost
with no daughter of my own, that father’s special joy unknew
yet once, as out-reached your arms so high, for that - here thanking you.
May 20, 2000

Once received, it ought be shared
in such manner tells - one cared.
October 28, 2000

Thence moved slowly further with casual stride, again to wait
glassed ground, fields, woods or sky - quiz some new bird's plumaged trait
keen-remembered later, researched bird-guide with pictured plate
another species or flower's bloom - therein pen and date.

Now knowing what we viewed then, but a distant dream once seen as real
back when Nature's simple pleasures gifted her, Spring birthed anew
again going back to remember her by - olden lays still feel
former birding days still treasured - our love was once wont to do.

But Time too soon intervened, unscheduled Death came to slay
only memories left to hold her near - such I daily pray.
November 5, 2000

Surprise-gift secretly bought
her hand inscribed, quickly brought
a book, knew I deeply desired
then given me - her love conspired.

Thus her thoughtfulness did
for two months she kept hid
took me by surprise
that love in her eyes!

Til time outran that love
but not what given of
her gift deeply treasured
that book - fully pleasured.

Death took down that love of hers
too early died, no sorrow cures
though my love now beyond her grave
grateful for that gift - she once gave.
November 14, 2000

Oh once fairy days remembered now, in love’s June
first weeks raptured into months, far beyond early hewn
our loving kindly won, from tender trust we grew
wore sporting time most fairly - between me and you.

Oh once chary days recalled, in love’s September
children bred from first to last, each family member
reared as blindly led, fashioned from love of ours
wore love to deeper depths - by long-labored hours.

Oh once scary days recalled, in love’s December
as first-love’s flames burnt down to final ember
too soon time turned late, til lost that last touch of you
wore thwarting Time sparsely, til at last - Death came due.

Oh once times of yore,  first thought endless - forever
how rapid years fled, from first felt love’s endeavor
now grateful for what lasting trust learned, from love’s play
those once merry days still remembered - in love’s first May.
November 28, 2000

All done to express, explain, exclaim - until life expires
love shared between with that ecstacy, of human desires
affirming commitment of each to each, love requires
each expressing mutual trust - when selfless love conspires.
November 29, 2000

 Heaven’s domed sky cast deep blue upon two, bidding their last farewell
his anguish lightened, by age-old honored call to bear arms
a nation’s future challenged, by powers beyond their Irish dell
as turned, blew her his parting kiss - with all its tender charms.

He to leave, maybe forever - she to bide until whenever
early love yet unfulfilled, by Nation's call for war's endeavor
with only memories to hold their trusting love, til those battles done
as gentled air blurred both kiss and tears, to warn - love not always won.
December 3, 2000

Re-yearning days, when life held love top shelf
shared friendships formed, til led beyond one's self
cared enough to bind up those wounds, harms and hates had cast
unreturning days now lost, yet Faith and Love - will last.
December 19, 2000

Raveled words, careless carings blindly cast as made our way
trite trifles thought necessary, to gain some meager stray
honings one’s instant want, by whetting tongue with sharp remark
slowly quenching love’s trusting flame - til sputtered in the dark.

Such blindness unsaw beyond the now, trampled on freedoms others own
insensitive, purblind, impervious to their silent inner groan
wasting only worth human life needs to seek, such - Faith has given of
here now confess as late atoning for - when gave hurts to those I love.
December 27, 2000

If words unspoke before, could then be now as said
if thoughts later felt, back then been expressed instead
if of love now understood, would then have been known
'tis a hopeless wish, if done - same events would clone.

Whatever said, thought, felt before - in the past must forever lie
whatever now wished had done those years before, but an anguished cry
hereafter of how my love has grown far truer, now known to you
thereafter of our love, beyond the grave - love forever true.
January 3, 2001

Then would rise, readied herself - fast-walked up long lane
strode with purpose, despite weathers snow or rain
a ritual taken serious, not a game
made felt one useful - for her mother was lame.

When returned, gave all to mother who sorted through
gave back advertisements - letters addressed to you!
Was slow of mind, only made it through sixth grade
half a century lived, one destined - an old maid.

Fond memories sadly felt when should think of her
simple saint became, of that am certain sure
like many such, always remembered names and dates
kind of soul, simple minded - Mary had those traits.

Now recalling where daily sat, her life begot
my Valentine poemed to tell - you are not forgot.
February 14, 2001

Unlike as before, when vis-a-vis
or after wed - a man with his miss
spoken words each heard, made hearts pound
your eyes tinged with gray - easily found.

Those august days found no more
nor curtsy you firstly wore
only fading memories left, I sadly assay
so long knowing you, now painfully - far away.
June 29, 2001

A date remembered, which brought strength of my own
for gave birth of one, winds of Chance had blown
in time, would seed their love within my heart
treasured memories long kept - first gave it start.

Would have been fifty-five if yet alive
tender thoughts we co-fashioned, still survive
hopes embracing you as then oft done
cherished among those best - life has won.

As of a quiet eve, when silence ends the day
drifting dreams birthing words, still have need to say
despite those vacant years, intervened in between
most grateful, how our love still remains - so pristine.
August 24, 2001

Love once fed, now leaves a hunger parched and dry
when time too quickly fled, early death brought by
dis-junctured moments, memory holds confused
lies or truths of one's grief - must be excused.

Events Time left untouched, more cherished than first occurred
re-lives within one's heart, love's missment late conferred
when too much of so little, recalled in silent hours
precious secrets still thought upon, when first love was ours
each night time taken, to speak with you - beyond those stars.
August 29, 2001

Vague vestiges fueling feebled spark
ceding little warmth to heat the dark
drifts from distant days, cold winds tossed
like fragile flecks - of brittle frost.

Brief chimeras found, as shadows merely
episodes remembered, though not clearly
what former days brought to birth, so long ago
old love now barely hears - their fading echo.
November 16, 2001

Pastor quenched church-lights, all candles but one
as if confirmed Death's duty, finally done
yet I stood silent, midst dark shadow's dun
til at last I remained - the only one.

Feeling that final flush of one's life
her cares and hopes, Death put away
deeply known, though been another's wife
of my love - still would not betray.

Old visions from a past, fond memory held
when care and hopes knew not pain
nor what later came to pass, foul Fate spelled
cold hate and envy - left its stain.

Now beyond reach of harm that others give
in ways we can not understand
far from where much controls those lives we live
that peacefulness - of Lotus-land.

When twilit sky turned orange, evening airs swept clean
as if agreed on by Nature's will
with softened tread of halting feet, left this scene
yet of her tender love - thankful still.
November 29, 2001

Only then, felt feelings unfelt before
one's timidity could not show
until spoke her final words, spoke their encore
then firmly knew - could never let her go.

Thence anguish turned to pain, deeply felt
such as never suffered so before
one's hopeful ardor heartfully dwelt
words quickly brought - but to implore.

Thereafter, Life's die firmly cast
a dying hope could not ignore
til outgrew a life, unlike one's past
far future years - would explore.

A pivotal on which both futures
might have gone either way
decided, when reason out-bid
by what human hungers pray.

Nor forgotten that worth of life
such words and pain put in play
yet, of all that would after come
only this day - found need to say.
December 4, 2001

For aches of saddened hearts oft unknown
learned from love's quittance, its loss bemoan
thence you will be free for futures yet to be
unfeeling love's loss - such only felt by me.

For where lies dory below Ludlow's weirs
but two miles more to where Channel steers
at break of dawn, whence Hamford sets sail
from thence all trace of me - leaves no trail.

Your freedom for future years, my gift to you
double-life you have lately led, long I knew
of me not hear nor know, til Death's fateful flame
of our love's early days - my most grateful claim.

Tis more than soft-laid iron that turns to rust
love with selfish aims, quickly turns to lust
tendered care unshared, learns one not to trust
til friendship dies, hopes dried - to brittle crust.
December 8, 2001

Did each lead each, or was both
when to God we spoke our troth
single glance - then curtsy met
after-times - enduring yet.

A pairage that changed lives of two
a marriage that wore long years through
til Fate bent low, with its final breath
to rend our bondings - with fatal Death.

That hand once took mine, now but history
how began thence became - a mystery
enigma Love brings, life freely cast
Faith further telling - tis such will last.
December 8, 2001

Should perchance again to hear notes flow
soft melodic harmonies played slow
proof enough, one still in tune
far back then - in early June.

Still telling what back then, both early felt
hearts deeply in love, music fondly dealt
then meant so much to her and me
when first-love thought - would ever be.
December 16, 2001

Years-after, dating days drew near
with warnings fretful mothers fear
when moon enlures - where love might steer.

Soon, months brought what first birthing flings
such, married love-making oft brings
moon now shadowed - with haloed rings.

Such, passing years brought further by
til age stints first-love's passioned try
thence moon reminds - of first-love's sigh.

Thus life's cost of love, must pay its debt
recall joyed days, when love first met
as moon 'ore early grave - sadly set.
January 3, 2002

Proffered with soft needful touch, clearly showed
how foster wendings best on any road
inly knew, would outlast her eyeful view
long after motherhood - cold Death withdrew.

Such recalled in this latter day of life
those of two, my mother dear then my wife
both by gentled hands and twinkled smile
such this day thought upon - for the while.
January 4, 2002

NOW REMEMBERED
Wife and I off on vacation stay
where dangled limbs of willows sway
midst quiet lay of gentled folk
where none speak - til to them are spoke.

Stood apart from edging crowd
where bracing sea-airs gave stir
drift among those unfelt proud
for a month - just I and her.

But there was a far deeper cause
for which we went
words I must tell, late-thinking draws
our Love had meant.

Forward years much too busied by
time seldom took to say
words from long ago, each would try
still true - although both gray.

Recapture lost hours, share her heart's desire
re-rapture old bowers, ageing years aspire
before cold Death should down one - or both expire.

There beyond, shore ripples endlessly replay
of such we shared between, as sipped our frappé
idle words long unsaid, hopeful each might say
re-new an ancient love - ravels found to fray.

But of course she knew - trailed foot-path close by
where viewed endless avian flights, cliff-held high
for 'twas how first met, she'd stopped to ask - yet shy
where trail found leads to cliffs - that touch the sky?

A magic only lovers know, by some simple twist of fate
found to fashion far-future years, two held one - a treasured date
thereafter unraveled mysteries, no history yet foreknows
constant need to tell one is loved, each to each - ever owes.
February 1, 2002

To hold my hand once again, for what firmly told
motherhood and married days, we casually strolled
endearing touches of our past, but ghosts remembered by
now mere memories keep you close - felt with saddened sigh.

Wherenow with celestial hands, coddle me once again
whispering things never said, nor those - that might have been.
February 10, 2002

A name unlike one only I could gift, marriage pledged
her onward life far otherwised, other children fledged
dwell and do, draw different schemes - life otherwise brought
perhaps far outlived days our pairage - too quickly wrought.

What fame and fortune would have graced her days, years would tell
traveling foreign climes and place, health chanced ill or well
wove a web of friends and foes, each life found to spin
in-laws and children, better or much worse - than been.

Should Chance have passed us both by, than elsewise might have thrown
neither her nor I to meet, as ones ever unknown
if my unquesting love found some other cast, or not at all
upon such a bonnie lass, whose brightsome beauty - held my thrall.

Perhaps if married otherwise, still be alive today
please with her tender love, innate caringness might convey
may have earned a richness, only grandmothers live to share
if my yearning love had not intervened - nor brought to bear.

Of what could have been or might have done, now ponder on
simple twist of place and time, early love birthed at dawn
but a vapid dream, to tease that sadness I yet carry
remembering how all began - too soon found to bury.

A history both brought to be, so brief those years we flung
unknowing of what would become, nor thought of when young
that chapter now written, ink dried - no lie may emend
leaves but grateful dreams, how began - til at last would end.

Her duties ended, no more must toil earthen ways
wages taken, Death dismissed, her beauty turned to clays
beyond reach of touch, mute words of grief each day one prays
grateful what our loves each chose - earned by our married days.

Now knowing what my unquestioned love, has brought to bear
upon a bonnie lassie, with such brightsome brunet hair
trusting what my first questing love found to be, also yours
such thoughts as these, this valentine gifts - olden memory stirs.

All this beyond recall, for Time knows but future days
what here have penned, recounts what both love and sadness pays
for married love, a bonding no other pairage brings
this valentine tells our love - my heart still sweetly sings:
Ich liebe dich mein frau, sie sind mein valentine.
February 14, 2002

Old photographs still show her smiling face
grasping fingers fondle but empty space
scratchy tapes, shatter some forgotten word
memories left unseen - still felt and heard.

Our love beyond doubts of betrayal
sin and sickness no longer interferes
forever will our love prevail
only Time awaits, our love - free of tears.
August 8, 2002

Coaxed and winked, as talked with my guile
at first he just gawked - then his smile
still I persisted, he briefly whiled
til fingers untwisted - waved free-styled.

With that we all laughed, each parent knows
tis but Loving's craft - one's Friendship owes.
August 15, 2002

Until those knees no longer spread
until those knees no longer bred
yet both arms still told, what love said
though other's arms - confined to bed.

Between both knees and arms, love long given of
after death, found love yearns - a far greater Love.
August 20, 2002

Hush me with silence, need not of your lips
but warmth and comfort, my sorrow grips
as weeping tears dampen, both eyes and brow
let your sympathy - be my cure for now.

Such that power of love, knowing you understand
trusting your friendship, will issue no reprimand
as lend me your manly shoulders, to lean upon
ceding a daughter's comfort - so may not despond.

Shoulder me with your hope, patiently so
will tell you when at last, may let me go
manly warmth and silence, your comfort shows
giving thanks dad - so much a daughter owes.
August 23, 2002

AT FIRST
Sleep quickly slipped beyond their reach
that night, as both longly tossed
this way then that, until to each
spoke what former words - had lost.

LATER
Dim dying embers, almost forgotten of
smoldered, long wed years so dearly cost
til both reached out, try again an olden love
their togethered years - had slowly lost.
September 16-19, 2002

Assuring me, you ken my doubts with trust
til awaiting Death, gathers each to dust
knowing then, what you now dimly share
in distant days, midst those climes - more fair.

Such thoughts oft occur, should my dreams shift to you
when nights toll twelve, tender thoughts so often do
my love still seeking, your enduring charms
fond memories still held - with enwrapping arms.
November 9, 2002

All that transpired there by her and I
of their precious depths, some I cannot share
memories dimmed by age, will gradually die
until holds at last - but her dying there.

Tender episodes of our past soon lost
love's Summer's warmth, now quenched by Winter's frost
yet of what they once gave, hopes re-bloom anew
what old Faith retains, future hopes - but review.
January 16, 2003

Ephemeral light gave eerie showings of
shadowed reflections of an olden love
wry memories flickered, love had longly grown
remembered days of her past - nights make known.

Vague stirrings, as if fanned by angel wings
strange tremors felt deep within, old love flings
echoes heard from prior years, Chance brought to bear
as if gently cast - by her attendant care.

Old Scriptures tell - Spirit blows where It may
words heard within an unsuspecting soul
to heal a grieving heart gone astray
strange shadows love sent, I - her wanted goal.
February 6, 2003

Time since, fled slowly fast
such love, now in the past
lost within - that endless Vast.
February 7, 2003

Captured within the heart, remembered in the mind
untold since, to all other eyes - forever blind
have no need to tell, nor those events be retraced
love-notes firstly flung, passing years - have not erased.

To each, whose life encompassed married years
scattered remnants left, best felt with tears
unique yet much the same, love's music plays
as olden aches return - their haunting ways.

Til through happy tears, Time and Place return like before
some brief moment, our love once caught - cannot now ignore
replays some cherished occasion, love then put in play
of its details nor their results - I need not say.
March 3, 2003

Those trips, long trails our birding-days stalked
endless miles, our sore feet tiredly walked
binocs sharp-focused, to tell what just flew by
old species refound - or newly brought to eye.

Her excitement, so serious for
an early quiet morning, blessed us with
oh if could but walk with her once more
those past birding days - but a vanquished myth.
March 27, 2003

Love engendered til happy tears wept
Love surrendered, whereafter both slept
Love remembered - each forever kept.
April 22, 2003

Distant mileage now lays between, where each resides
until of late came a change, moving close-by gifts
again late evenings, garth hears words - old love confides
as across cooling stone - setting sun fondly drifts.
April 23, 2003

Gathered from what needful days brought to hand
scattered strays, gathered across Nature's land
footprints erased by blow - of drifting sand.

One view reaps those ten-thousands, gone before
captured World's worth, joyed til Time outwore
then simply moved further on - to explore.

Another view - deep yearnings felt of heart
an inner exploration, Love may start
unsuspecting how soon - Death plays its part.

Yet while doth last, Love gives Life true meaning
cultures soon adopted its hopeful dreaming
adapted by Religions - for their theming.

A love each fashions within, becomes their all
til point of suffered dying, its fullest call
even other's death, leaves behind - their thrall.

Ancient words equate their worth, as one with God
those with Faith full knowing, such belief not odd
Love eternal, though each rots beneath grave's sod.

Although much forgotten, still recall friends of yore
past episodes, adventures - Hopes had spoken for
others may forget, but not I - full knowing more.
May 6, 2003

Told then retold, in a thousand-thousand ways
those raptured words of love, each to each must say
blindly spoke, fully heard, deeply felt - in one's heart tis read
words that never are ever asked of - yet so sweetly said.

So mark thee well of what I do say
as chart life's future course where love may
such tellings, plagiarized from poet's theme
dreamy drifts of love notes - all ages scheme.

Do you.....? Of course.....!, such to palpitate one's heart - at least on stage
far back when, how words once wore hungered lips - til love came of age
now found quiet brittle, perfunctory - like some legal notice canned
whereas long before, balmy drifts of sweet scentings - smelt of Lotus Land.

Ah, of what those ancients firstly cast, will outlast what old ears forgot
schemes enriched by Shakespearian prose, boldly written - when love its plot
old centuries measured, forever treasured - performers still put in play
sweet-nothings whispered, enraptured eyes speak - what lips need not say.
May 16, 2003

From whom sent, none else need know
understood within one's soul
freely came, heart-held - sweetly so
former ages kept - chastely whole.

But how of my words now sent back
to where or thence, to let you know
reply returns by two-way track
fond words I sent - to tell you so.
May 21, 2003

A brief note sent, tomorrow's mail may share
gentle words, old love still pens with idle care
again telling - had chosen you and why
across distant stars, love's clasp - holds you by.

Knowing if I where There and you still here
same words each would write, our love longly meant
across boundaries, only hopes can quickly steer
memories cast between - our love-notes sent.
June 2, 2003

But an hour or so, til our goodbyes
unspoke, what silent word implies
a kindness felt, gave need to tell
with well-mannered mien - wished me well.

As rose to leave, embraced me tight
in gratitude, as good friends might
thence walked down my lane, out of sight
knowing neither - would ever write.

A tender serendipity
of kindly spontaneity
Time will not gift again for me
I quickly left - last seen of she.
June 27, 2003

Yet sight gave view beyond, where lonely stand
unheard surf far below, washed coast-line sand
endless words, between sea and land - must say.

Single island seen perched, ten miles out
blue sea and sky, setting sun left no doubt
on this vast scene - a quiet silence lay.

As sun sank beyond brink of ocean's rim
soft stir of air, intoned its evening hymn
with words I hungered for - by which to pray.

When fading sky purpled down, til sky held black
spectral stars emerged across vast Zodiac
inly heard old voicings - from long ago.

Whispered echoes, my present days forgot
though unheard, yet felt cool air night brought
voicings uttered by one - I will ever know.

Such chanced to speak, as if voicings proved Faith true
struggled years both shared, from what our marriage grew
for Death cannot quench, love between I and you
affirmed when seas-winds softly came - to tell me so.
August 18, 2003

Ecstatic joys yet tremble within
words long unspoken, heard retold again
love full-embraced, both pledged so long ago
a fervor far stronger - than then could know.

Whispered dreams, olden love still nurtured by
holds a certainty, Trust need not ask why
two held one, communed between for awhile
as dried tears encrust wan cheeks - now asmile.
September 18, 2003

Those futures we'd planned, or promised each other by
unconsidered without care or caution, nor why
such strength, love empowers to those hopeful young
when life's flame fiercely burned - their happiness sung.

Such daring dreams, our early years sought to try
hurried haste and waste, Time slowly passing by
gathered both thrills and ills, til grew of what became
old age now clearly sees, though - only I remain.

Such, young years are for, slowly learning Trust and Truth
maturing ideas and hopes, first wished in one's youth
treasured memories now remembered, yet with weepful tears
what quickly gathered, old age slowly cries - passing years.

Grateful, faithful, waitful - til again one with you
those early dreams of life and love, each hoped come true
until we both now knowing of, what each came to be
as with thankful voice, grateful - for what you made of me.
November 30, 2003

Tis freely done, no known power can block
one's heart inly writes, no pen needs sketch
traveled prayers, old love - of vintaged stock.

A word or two just to keep in touch
some brief whim, urged with one's tears
early times recalled, for our love - 'twas such.

Ever grateful, always faithful - to tell you so
communed between, despite far distant spheres
whispered words my love oft sends - just to let you know.
December 6, 2003

Every day anywhere, Tim and Jack a constant pair
much as any rural-bred, their days and years would share
if either should be seen out and about, yet alone - astray
question asked of dog or man - Other nearby or far away?

A comradery, perhaps more faithful than wedded bliss
until each grown so familiar, whereby their eyes gave kiss
presence each one expected, unspokenly acquired
companionship each one gave - begun when Jack retired.

Til ancient law obeyed, every creature birthed alive
unthought when first whelped, life but brief run of years - survive
when Tim heard that deafened silence - loud stillness of Jack's laughter
found without his hand, voice and presence - Tim died three days after.
December 27, 2003

My goodbye quizzing, if last words spoke - truth or lies
only future days would tell, with son's ventured tries
by mere strength of human trust, vague hopes kept alive
those pleadful silent prayers - that one's son might survive.

Confused beyond reach of reason, proofs could not give
nor some firm foundation, upon which one should live
as with total trust, so as not impede freedom's youthful try
each hands bid their parting waves - with tears in their unblinking eye.

Thereafter but that strain of waiting, wanting - wishing best
a youth still searching midst unknown snares, of some secret quest
could neither explain nor full express, firm held convictions
left behind but trusting fears - of life's future predictions.

Such that strength of hope, dependent on another's free-willed choice
endless weeks before, could-would not freely exchange with their voice
until that farewell, etched within one's soul and heart as well
awaiting in those shadows - only one's future would tell.

Then but another wave cast, when both stood beyond reach of ears
as drove on, out of a an enigmatic life - eyes full of tears
pleading those gods above, their forgiving love may still bestow
upon one so desperately loved - yet no longer deeply know.
December 27, 2003

Gave her virtue to one could fully trust
tasting pleasures, far beyond passioned lust
til declining years grew dry - as they must
both died within days - Virtue praised as just.
March 2, 2004

New moon cast no shadows on wet sand
yet within, she felt some dark inner mood
sea's wavelets hurled on dampish strand
stirring up anguished thoughts, her thinkings brewed
where ocean's wet - nurtured starving land.

Joy mixed with a sadness she felt
out alone at night, seashore might cure
when truth found false, his lies had dealt
yet even now, could not be sure
of what words and waves - futures spelt.

Until those silent whispers, blowing seawinds sent
high price would cost, lost-love would have to pay
then with determined stride, finally upped and went
footprints left behind - wavelets washed away.
March 16, 2004

Lips would not speak, though heart broken
felt-words, should have sweetly told
pain held frozen, never spoken
as if love's warmth - long grown cold.

A blame here must latterly confess
still castigates one's inner soul
a shame, regretful words now express
expiate - what love's silence stole.

May since-years fully known by you
re-heal a silence, then withheld
my agony then chose to do
now revealed - back then compelled.

Such that power of forgiving love
late confessing what then had done
shared between, what each to each told of
til we meet again - two held one.
April 2, 2004

As passing years changed them both, Death  healed of
left one behind to ponder their former love
til within, each felt closer than love-tied before
yearning what an aging love, could now - but implore.
April 16, 2004

Mother who gave me birth, mother of our sons
selfless sacrifice, maturnity never shuns
first a son, then a father - now gift my prayers
what both once freely gave, Death took - each of theirs.

Began when enlaced their hair with a wild flower fresh
each year flower graced their lapel, conveyed love of ours
each ending up with single white bloom, laid upon their breast
both now honored with graveside visits - again with flowers.
May 9, 2004

Prior years now seem so far away
one's memory may recall
should old love-thoughts replay
those days found best of all
such - doth Death take.
June 3, 2004

After night of scattered rains and weary dreams
happy joys mixed with pains, before she died
recent weather brought on, clouds of memoried themes
brief days marriage bred, or wet tears - nightly cried.

Assuring a life, kindness gave or anger's sin
its ravaged wear, unraveling skeins of former days
a necessity birth requires, future hopes might win
down those unpaved roads - dirt-traveled of dusty ways.

Now mere memories left, to clutch that distant past
each day refurbished, past episodes rehearsed
silent whisperings, her sweet voicings yet cast
secrets nightly sung, til saddened clouds - dispersed.
July 12, 2004

Shatter my mind with memory's loss, waste what yet remains
take all of all's that left, whatever my life contains
pull down what hopes yet seek, except of what I believe
curse my name with shame, yet save my love - Death took away.

Remove me from where now dwell, stunt what still grows
bring on ill-broughten days, ravage all that beauty shows
deny what futures may accrue, spoil all might dream
but leave for me her good name - proud Death left behind.

For in the end, only Love abides ever after
Death a step you cannot deny, now one old and gray
what world tritely knows, merely rife with rank laughter
for in the end I will win, when she comes - to bring me home.

A promise both gave to each, our late-love required
toiled life-long to gain what truly most desired
until that saddened day, when at last she expired
til death do us part, our early love - first inspired.
July 14, 2004

Of what each spoke, like two as one
only their silence knows
perhaps ever be remembered
when evening - nightly goes.

I chanced thereby next day at noon
for whatever reason why
stood beneath those towering elms
when bright sun held - noon-high.

To know of such trysts gone before
when I was young and free
brief words, yet more in silence said
spoke between I and she.

Unknowing then what came to be
our onward years would tell
tis of such chanced, when saw those two
standing there - as darkness fell.

A ritual, sun-down silhouettes
dark and light gathers by
whence love speaks its fond epithets
sweet-nothings - telling why.
July 21, 2004

Til they in turn, wed a love of their very own
a father's seed, a mother's love but clones
bearing fruit of similar blood and kindred bones
their hopeful dreams and suffered hands - have sown.

Like a fair flower tinted but pale blue
breasts each morning's sun
when at last, a daughter speaks her I do
to another father's son.

Fair blossoms so sprightly sprung
sweet scents, fresh blooms freely flung
til re-seeds of wherever may
upon a Summer's - brightful day.

Unto those unending ages, Time confirms
upon an aging earth, each Spring returns
re-lacing fresh blossoms in one's hair
full-proclaims a love - that each still share.

As those soft caressing winds gently touch
fresh bonnie blossoms kindly brought of such
to dry those tears, ill-weathers bring
a song - those dainty bluets sing.

By caressing winds, nodding bluets knelt
when their silent scent so sweetly smelt
beauty cast upon those with eyes to see
a grace, one's first love - freshly flung to me.
August 14, 2004

Enraptured as if beheld
a goddess others unsaw
Life itself sately fulfilled
only Death itself - could withdraw.

Yet when Death's silent steps came near
to signal its time and place
implied would occur now and here
lips unspoke - til left no trace.

Now seems so long ago, almost as if but a dream
as if days that never were - or so it now may seem.

Ghostly chimeras yet display
ghastly surreal, standing there
as watched warm beauty fade away
her earthly beauty - wan and bare.

Time and Place, love remembers by
each to each brought of but themselves
visioned beauty first brought of eye
widowed memories - late-life delves.

Then so freshly real, til now seems surreal
dance of life, spectral visions one yet retains
gathered episodes, passing years still reveal
those fond feelings her beauty wrought - still remains.

What once occurred, seem so true - one could touch
taste and felt all, Love would share to try
now only vague confusions hold of such
time and place, back then and there - love held her by.

Although one still smiles, nights often weep sadful tears
opportunities, caught or missed their appointed time
til old age holds unclear, place and time of former years
merely scraps of forgotten words - poets put to rhyme.
August 26, 2004

Gathered up what seemed apropos
travel back whence first came to be
stored away her portfolio
held no meaning - except by me.

Was nearly forty-years ago
two hundred miles far north of town
remains of her bridle trousseau
still holds rich scent - of her satin gown.

Sad circumstance, Death broughts to life
early days of marriage, too brief
fond memories of one's only wife
cherished dreams, quickly turned - to grief.

Now dwell a southern clime, down state-side
where snow nor wolf-packs heard to howl
night echoes still recall when she died
winters no longer - nightly growl.
August 26, 2004

Down caverned chasms Death may speak, echoed once again
a void one's mind clearly recalls, deeply down within
mysteries, human hungers cannot taste - nor hands tightly grasp
nor those embrasures love yearns, fingers fondled - still wished to clasp.

Merely what vague memories sift, from lost forgotten days
dancing chimeras dimly caught, briefly seen - seldom stays
neither sight nor sound assuring, if but truth or lies
former deeds our Love had done, my lonely heart - still cries.

Unuttered words sent across that void, seldom heard
of what might have been, but by ourselves most often stirred
promised hopes once held up high, rhymed verbage inked down by pen
fractured years Death denied, future dreams recall - far back then.

A dare, love casts upon those waters - comes back again
fevered brow and wistful heart, sadly hopes - deep within
beyond one's reach to touch and know, til meets again someday
of what our lives had longly saved - Death soon turned to clay.
October 21, 2004

Beyond that window, nightly looking out
where revolving earth soon occludes solar light
my prayers launched with hopes and fearful doubts
to say what must be ever said - if I might.

Standing there as one alone, yet proudly raise
my eyes, as lips launch brief words of fondly praise
in thankful gratitude for what began, then came to be
a nocturnal dialogue discoursed - between you and me.

A nightly tryst, where both meet beyond those stars
cherished rendezvous, our abiding love pretends
shadowings of those nights when first love was ours
duty night still requires - mutual love commends.

Thereafter stumble into a sterile bed of dreams
struggle midst those memories of long ago, love distills
til morning's dawn awakens those daily dutied schemes
awaiting what Death may gift - our former love fulfills.
October 28, 2004

Thereafter where one resides, but a place
to weather down ensuing years alone
aging eyes, still retain that former face
cold March day buried - beneath grave's cold stone.

Purpose provided security, life then held
dealt-out cards of life, shuffled each day's hand
games she won, I lost - scoring tallies, played-hands meld
til home's foundation - crumbled into sand.

Like a vagabond do I now travel by
awaiting life's full-tenure be canceled out
as my inward eye looks far beyond the sky
firmly trusting high Heaven's hope - yet with doubt.

Home shared in my youth, then of our own
struggled years of happiness, pains would bear
unaware our togetherness, merely on loan
brought flames of ardent love, each with each - would share.

No matter where one may be found to dwell
one felt homeless, my vacant grave denies
til beyond reach of Time and hopeless Hell
trusting, til home found beyond those skies.
October 31, 2004

Long years of gathered laughs, weekly lied again
shared midst kindred cousins, each treasured within
old episodes, ancestors passed on long before
til sleepy eyes, sore throats and lips - could laugh no more.

But will come a time, cold Death takes each one down
til few left - tell old stories or act the clown
as minds go astray with truths and facts, yet still laugh
as Grime Reapers scythe takes each down - til less than half.

AS  FOR  NOW
All gone back to whence had come, their far otherwheres
pick up where life left off, travels took back home
gathered clan of kith and kin, mutual friendship shares
tis such, love will do - gave reason for this poem.
November 28, 2004

Whereof in those climes more fair, beyond reach of eye
ills strangely held within, til took you down to die
left behind unfathomed mysteries, without their why
midst those astral stars, mother's love - may save you by.

Still I struggle onward days, yet trusting will come a time
thence understanding why, of what mislead you in your prime
strange wanderings, midst darken ways of citied dirt and grime
helping hands still assisting you - long ways have yet to climb.

Prayerful pleadings, a father's forgiveness offers up in prayer
ancient faith gives such assurance, hope may well-find you there
for love can overcome, whatever sorrows dare to share
within those hallowed realms of unending climes - such my prayer.
December 8, 2004

A secret but she can know of
some inner clock awoke
an episode of first-felt love
past years cannot revoke.

Whereof began a play
untimely death would finally end
recalled this very day
some mystic sign - late night might send.

Thereafter, morning's sun
warmly melted her fearful fright
strange dreamings last night spun
birthed a joy felt - at first light.

Tis such have long remembered
first love fulfilled, til its very last
a memory now Decembered
when March-death signed itself - lastly cast.

The years have not forgot
securely kept within ones heart
of all that love begot
that night long ago - gave its start.

Such we began those onward years
struggled hard wear of married life
untroubled with unknowing fears
four children bred - birthed of wife.

By eve of next day's end
filled with thoughts, only she could know
high cost one's love must spend
tis such - that gives a mother's glow.

Yeah, tis of such love begets
each wedding night, first-found unique
her's smelt of flowered bluets
love hid within - its own mystique.
December 17, 2004

When life's labors left one undistracted
by family duties each day required
time freely taken, leisure counteracted
some need for freedom - family inspired.

Thereof all gathered up to travel by
unplanned ventures, wife felt had need
back roads driven slow, no one asked why
uncaring wherever - drive might lead.

Sun's slow setting, bathed all with an orangy glow
seen as if in a fairy-land, felt surreal
its beauty encouraged driving very slow
as not to miss - for what our dreams might reveal.

Such, today's orangy evening sun brought back
those sundays past, family-time to drive and dream
launched across memoried fields of fading brown
children knowing, would stop for ice-cream in town.
January 9, 2005

YET
Firm-held faith, still ceding one hope
night-prayers plead - by which to cope.
March 2, 2005

Reminds our love so long ago
and all that after came
future years would quickly outgrow
til left - what Death must claim.

As Nature's seasons come and go
love cast on evening's air
reasons we cannot fully know
each to each hopes - may share.

Til life lived beyond death - we cry
for our love still demands of such
only fools think a vapid lie
whipperwill's call - keeps us in touch.
March 9, 2005

To have and to hold, down life's ensuing years
reaffirming their bridal love without fears
sweet nothings whispered in one another's ears
privately shared between in silence - love clearly hears.

Until age and infirmity took their toll
fond words, brief kiss, now fulfills its former role
arms held entwined, enough to fulfill love's goal
despite love full-pleasured - passing years have stole.
March 17, 2005

Whereas each day comes and goes, filling out life's remaining days
grateful for one firstly chose, she of whom my love daily prays
freely gave my life away, to one who yet gifts their life to me
honor and obey til I down to die - her love will set me free.
May 25, 2005

Tis for those young to venture far from shore
future hopes, their eager mind would explore
back in those times, two months would take or more
to gain what then - each knew not of before.

While those left behind could only wait
by what their nightly prayers pled of Fate
be at least half- year before letters read
learned what three-month-old letters wrote - had said.

For most, would never sail back again
months often passed before message came
left a silence, loneliness wept within
late nights dreamed - watching their fireside's flame.

Now all that has changed - telephones and planes
daily in contact with their far-flung kids
despite all, parents still feel those pains
late of nights, eyes still cry - their miss-ment bids.
May 30, 2005

She took time to think
he gave eyes a'wink
there by kitchen sink
wouldn't take very long!

Three hours, they came back
by then, skies looked black
he carried her sack
so glad you came along!

She put their coffee on
still grateful she had gone
til both began to yawn
t'was how they got along.
December 6, 2005

T'was there first met, idled down a fading evening by
speaking fond words, only two held one have nerve to try
whereafter, words remembered - until one downs to die.

On a hill beneath a tree, eyes, lips and words once told
what future years might give or take, neither bought nor sold
silver linings life's fabric wove - sown among the gold.

Tis of such secrets beauty births, words but poets tell
toiled labors longly struggled, needs must buy or sell
those fading years gave or took - wherever chanced to dwell.

Yet will come both a time and place, to end those days of grace
when tethered two leaves behind but one, future years must face
'neath dancing shadows, other buried - saddened memories chase.

Whereof after that time and place, hopeful words each spoke
schemes and dreams firstly fostered there, their vows never broke
'neath dancing leaves, dark shadows cast - by that ancient oak.
December 16, 2005

Should now cast your green-blue eyes, still tinged with gray
with those endless words, would now want to say
my awaiting ears, eager to hear what you may
affirming our love - though birthed from brittle clay.

Dreams drifting across that endless reach of space
my dim earthly eyes, still see your smiling face
unforgotten memories of times well-placed
whereof began, became, begot - til embraced.

Tis such inner magic, love yet compels
without a single word, my heart retells
what you now full understand, hope foretells
I knowing what your silent lips - foretells.

Til Time brings Death to die, yet not alone
struggled years, health found crippled - needs outgrown
frugal living's frail strands, I now disown
awaits your fond return - to take me home.
December 16, 2005

Each had early climbed hill's opposing sides
where far below, Deveron slowly glides
whereof shyly greeted with our smile
thereby chose to rest by a sheepfold style.

Some twenty years grew, because of this
bred and birthed - a brightsome bonnie lass.
February 17, 2006

Future days would find anew
their after years may bring
aging memories, now review
forgotten winters - cling.

To wonder what life may find
summer days or winter's snow
harsh words or lips spoken kind
death after - may finally know.

Seasons ill-weathers blow
or warm climes, summers share
tis such our manner's show
if we but kindly - dare.
May 19, 2006