Oh love that fades in shallow shoals
on ripples of despair
Like watching on a screen that scrolls
as matter disappears

Oh time that slows to make the heart
a vessel of distress
When swift passage would help in part
to make it more painless

Where does reason go when soul is sore
from harsh exposure
When you need it most there's no door
for the insecure

I 'm fraught with tears of deep regret
if I have caused some hurt
Yet, in cement some minds were set
that were too introvert

Frail feelings once having abound
harbor no malice here
The strength to understand is found
if minds are taught to care

Oh love that never leaves my thoughts
that takes up all my days
Where  can one find the  fondness sought
to take the ache away

etw~2003