“My heart only ever had one thought, one want. One need.
Despite all, in spite of all...All my heart has ever wanted is you.”
Stephanie Laurens

In my mind I am standing
Somewhere surrounded by
Unfulfilled dreams
And heartsick wishes.
Alone.
So alone.
Tired of facing life
Without someone
To help me bear
Its weight.
I am strong,
I've had to be,
But oh how I wish
I could rest
While someone else
Held back the demands
Being made upon me,
Who protected me
While I slept.
So I constantly dream
Of arms that hold me tightly,
Of a heart that beats
With the courage
Of a lion,
And the loyalty
Of the wolf
For its mate.
Still,
I do not dream
Of perfection.
I am not interested
In a Galahad,
Sterile in his goodness,
Or a Lancelot
Rash and foolish
In his choices.
No,
Give me Gawain
With his imperfect nobility.
Send me someone
Brave,
Loyal,
Loving,
And flawed.
Send him to me soon-
The missing piece
Of my puzzle.

c. 2024