-1-
Why is it that being in love
makes even the simplest of activities
seem momentous and meaningful?
We walked through a shopping mall
hand in hand smiling into one another's eyes
stopping at times to share tender kisses
and whispered endearments
We had lunch at a quiet Portuguese restaurant
and you spooned fresh oysters into my mouth.
Teasingly I caressed your leg with my foot
and you took it into your lap
and massaged it gently
The table seemed too wide
- a great divide
when love flowed sweeter than wine
We shared a bottle of vino verdi
and spoke of our dreams
of being together forever
Forever is but a moment in love...

-2-
I loved seeing the wonder in your eyes
The way you tickled the lion cubs
and filmed their playful antics
Enthralled that you could get up so close
You stepped in a pile of dung
and when I pointed it out
You grinned and said "Lucky it wasn't you!"
I'd taken my shoes off (stupidly I'd worn heels)
Cheekily I retorted "I watch where I walk"
Seconds later I tripped
and had to be helped to my feet - blushing.
Oh the irony!
We giggled like children
as we made our way back to your car

-3-
You were supposed to film the lions
I turned to find the camera trained on me
and stuck my tongue out
I'm camera shy you see
Still you captured wonderful footage
A regal male lion, head turned to the wind
A sleepy pride but a few feet away
We watched to the African beat of Savuka
an ambient accompaniment
and felt a deep sense of being alive

-4-
We set out early
to visit Gold Reef City,
passed Soweto and I told you
about the riots that happened there
during those dark apartheid years
You wanted to travel the Golden Highway
bit I cautioned you about the danger
and suggested another route
We got lost and you joked
about my poor sense of direction.
With mock indignation I protested
but knew I couldn't deny.
We had to ask for directions
Still it was one hell of a ride

-5-
A funfair and wind in my hair
Your curls ruffled and your eyes blue as sky
I asked myself why
it had taken so long to find
a love that has overtaken my mind
and delivered my heart
in all it's raw vulnerability
into your hands.
The answer came to me
as we walked arm in arm,
hundreds of invisible people
milling about, faces I couldn't see
I'm ready now to love
To receive from you
no need for any proof.

Copyright Chanti 2005