This is in response to Kate's "Ghazal" challenge. OK, I fudged and made EVERY couplet rhyme, but there are eighteen!

Oh love, what laughter's joys reveal
Worldly woe from my heart doth steal

In love, as life, a dream we weave
The sum of what our minds conceive

Time suspended in tender affection
Shallow illusion is spared reflection

For twin souls afloat on starry sea
The book of time may well decree

Their course will twine forevermore
Infinity graces the golden door

For those whose love in truth be true
The depths of honesty's wealth accrue

The richest trove of heaven's light
A beacon set staid in darkest night

To shine on shores littered with stone
From wisdom's well of sorrow known-

The stormy seas within our pain
That rips our sails for horizon's gain

What joy could be if not for this?
What worth revealed in a kiss?

Or thrill in the whisper of sighs?
The fathoms in a lover's eyes?

The warmth of a hand's caress?
A lei in an island of tenderness?

In dire straights love turns the wheel
Keeps the boat on an even keel

Balances hope apon the waves
When faith is strong, despair it staves

For joy a heart can scarce contain
When nurtured by a gentle rain

Peace beyond our stubborn will
Rests in forgiveness time instills

In constant praise to you impart
The prayers within a grateful heart

Thus carried by eternal tides
The ebb and flow of love abides


(c) Linda Gayton 2005