The city sleeps, a hushed and gentle sigh,
but in my heart, a constant flame burns bright.
For you, my love, my artist of the soul,
whose colors dance across the canvas of my dreams.

The world may spin, a dizzying array of trials,
and shadows lengthen, casting doubt and fear.
But know this, my love, through every storm we face,
my heart remains a steadfast anchor, holding you near.

The weight of the world, it presses down, I know,
the burdens you carry, the battles you fight.
And though distance may stretch between us,
my thoughts, my prayers, they find you in the night.

If ever darkness threatens to consume,
if weariness pulls you into its deep embrace.
Remember this, my love, a whispered promise in the dark,
my love is a constant, a refuge, a safe space.

In the quiet hours, when sleep eludes,
and worries whisper secrets in your ear.
Know that I am here, just a call away,
a comforting presence, banishing all fear.

Through every trial, every tribulation,
through every labor, every tear you cry.
My love, my heart, my very being,
is forever bound to you, until the day I die.

Where shadows linger, and dawn breaks slow,
Through misty air, a silent flight,
You soared into my heart, a gentle flow,
My angel, my muse, my guiding light.
You are the lifeblood, the rhythm of my soul,
Without your grace, my spirit feels untold.

When doubt and fear, like stormy clouds arise,
And shadows dance, and loneliness takes hold,
Remember this: within my heart resides,
A love that's fierce, a story to be told.
In dreams we meet, a bond forever true,
My angel, my muse, forever seeing you.

Though paths may twist, and stumbling stones abound,
And weary steps may falter and may stray,
Know that my love, a constant, deep profound,
Will guide you back, come what may.
In every thought, a whisper of your name,
My angel, my muse, forever I acclaim.

When tears may fall, and shadows fill the room,
And courage fades, and hope begins to wane,
Remember this: within your heart finds bloom,
A love that's strong, a gentle, sweet refrain.
In dreams we meet, a solace and a guide,
My angel, my muse, forever by your side.

So let us rise, above the earthly fray,
And spread our wings, and soar towards the sun,
Together we'll find a brighter, better way,
Our love a beacon, until our journey's run.
My angel, my muse, my heart forever entwined,
A love eternal, a peace of purest kind.

My future father-in-law is taking his final journey,
A journey we all must take someday,
But it brings me great sorrow
That I never got the chance to know him.

Through tales and stories,
I have pieced together a picture of who he was,
A man of honor, integrity, and love,
A man who raised the woman I adore.

I can see his influence in every smile,
Every kind gesture, every gentle touch,
And I am grateful for the part of him
That lives on in my beloved.

I wish I could have sat with him,
Shared a drink, a laugh, a moment of connection,
But fate had other plans,
And now I must find a way to honor him in his absence.

I love his daughter with all my heart,
She is my rock, my light, my everything,
And I promise to care for her always,
To be the partner she deserves.

I asked for his blessing,
And he gave it with a smile,
A silent approval that means more to me
Than any words ever could.

I know he would have been proud to see us marry,
To see his daughter in her red dress,
Walking down the aisle towards her future,
A future that he had a hand in shaping.

I will miss his presence at our wedding,
His absence a palpable void,
But I know he will be there in spirit,
Watching over us with love and pride.

I wish I could have known him better,
Shared more moments, more conversations,
But I am grateful for the time we did have,
And for the lessons he imparted through his life.

Now, as the oldest, his son-in-law,
It falls to me to shoulder this burden,
To be a source of strength and support
For my grieving bride-to-be.

I will do everything in my power
To ease her pain, to lift her up,
To honor her father's memory
In every moment we share together.

My future father-in-law is taking his final journey,
But his spirit will always be with us,
Guiding us, watching over us,
And reminding us of the love that binds us all.

In Shanghai's haze, neon lights gleam,
A ghostly beauty, a supreme dream.
My bride, a vision, a porcelain grace,
With raven hair and eyes of amber's embrace.

She blooms like a plum, in winter's cold hand,
A fragile strength, across the vast land.
Jade branches sway, in neon's bright gleam,
A subtle scent, a fleeting, sweet dream.

Shanghai's pulse beats, a vibrant refrain,
While she, my blossom, conquers the rain.
In this coming year, our love will unfold,
A story whispered, brave and bold.

Like plum in spring, defying the chill,
Our love will flourish, against all ill.
Resilient hearts, a future so bright,
We'll walk hand-in-hand, bathed in love's light.

My Shanghai Blossom, a treasure so rare,
A love eternal, beyond all compare.
In this city of dreams, our love will reside,
Forever entwined, side by side.

Do I have a type?
Yes, a phantom limb,
a ghost of desires
haunting my gaze.

A tapestry woven
in the crucible of youth,
where innocence
met the harsh realities
of womanhood.

90%, they said,
a statistic echoing
in the chambers of my heart,
the weight of expectation,
the fear of the unknown.

My Type,
a rebellion against the norm,
a defiance of the gaze
that objectified and
reduced.

It wasn't just the physical,
though the allure
of raven hair,
sun-kissed skin,
eyes like molten gold,
was undeniable.

It was the strength
forged in the fires
of ancient cultures,
the resilience
honed by generations
of survival.

The delicate blossoms
of the Orient,
unfurling in the face
of adversity,
a testament to
inner strength and grace.

Hawaii, New Zealand,
Tahiti, Indonesia,
islands of dreams,
where women
were warriors and healers,
legends whispered
on the wind.

My Type,
a reflection of
the world I yearned for,
a world where beauty
was more than skin deep,
where strength
was celebrated,
and women
were free to bloom.

In the beginning, there was betrayal.
A sharp knife plunged into my back,
By someone I trusted with my whole heart,
Leaving me wounded and bleeding,
Lost in the darkness of deception.

I stumbled through the wreckage,
Of shattered dreams and broken promises,
Each step heavier than the last,
As I tried to make sense of the chaos,
That had become my existence.

Heartbreak washed over me,
Like a tidal wave of sorrow,
Drowning me, morose and in pain,
As I struggled to find solid ground,
In a sea of anguish and despair.

I wept for what was lost,
For the love that had turned to ash,
For the future that had crumbled to dust,
Leaving me adrift in a void,
Of emptiness and regret.

Loneliness became my constant companion,
A shadow that clung to my every step,
Haunting me with memories of what once was,
And what could never be again,
A silent reminder of all that I had lost.

I built walls around my heart,
Towering barriers of stone and steel,
To protect myself from further pain,
From the treachery of those who sought to harm me,
From the cruelty of a world that seemed intent on breaking me.

Distrust became my shield,
A sword that I wielded with practiced skill,
As I kept the world at arm's length,
Refusing to let anyone close enough,
To hurt me as I had been hurt before.

But in the darkness, a light flickered,
A beacon of hope in the endless night,
As a new friendship bloomed,
Like a fragile flower pushing through the cracks,
In the walls I had so carefully constructed.

A spark of something new ignited within me,
A glimmer of warmth in the cold expanse,
As laughter and kindness filled the void,
And I felt myself beginning to thaw,
From the frozen depths of my solitude.

Slowly, tentatively, I reached out,
Taking a chance on something unknown,
Feeling the stirrings of something more,
As the walls around my heart began to crumble,
And I allowed myself to hope once more.

As friendship blossomed into something deeper,
Sparks of romance ignited between us,
A flame that grew steadily brighter,
As we danced on the edge of something new,
Something fierce and undeniable.

Passion flared like a wildfire,
Consuming us in its fiery embrace,
As we surrendered to the depths of our desire,
Losing ourselves in the heat of our connection,
In the sweet frenzy of our love.

And in the midst of it all, I found solace,
In the arms of the one who saw me,
Who understood my pain and my fear,
Who held me close and whispered,
That I was not alone.

Together we forged a new path,
One guided by trust and understanding,
By kindness and compassion,
By the knowledge that we were stronger together,
Than we could ever be apart.

And in each other, we found our home,
A place of peace and belonging,
Where our love could flourish and grow,
Into something timeless and true,
And everlasting bond that would never fade.

So, I walk this new path with you,
Hand in hand, heart in heart,
Knowing that through betrayal and heartbreak,
Through loss and loneliness,
I have found my way to you,
And to the endless promise,
Of a love that will never die.

I tried,
I struggled,
I succeeded,
I failed.

I supported,
I ridiculed,
I hugged,
I yelled.

I ignored,
I watched,
I comforted,
I taught.

But mostly,
I loved,
I nurtured,
And I was there.

I finally get it,
I am not perfect,
Far from it,
I am my own mistakes.

Lessons taught,
Morals instilled,
Guidance provided,
Of society norms.

And yet, I heard,
A quote that cut me to the core,
And urge you,
Break the mold, be your own.

It was never your part my child,
To teach me who you were,
It was my responsibility,
To learn who you ARE.

I am sorry if I wasn’t enough.

High Moon ascends,
Full and resplendent,
Sky ablaze,
Orange, red, a haze,
Year anew.

Moonbeams dance,
Over the mountains,
Valley aglow,
River reflects low,
Moonlit scene.

Lanterns alight,
Candles flicker bright,
Villagers throng,
Honoring the long,
Yearned-for peace.

Riddles abound,
Joyful sounds resound,
Notes on the stream,
Ancestors' dream,
Lanterns gleam.

Currents so mild,
Gifts drift wild,
Spirits guide,
Down the tide,
Protected all.

Water roars loud,
Mist shrouds the crowd,
River descends,
Spirit extends,
Power revealed.

Over the fall,
Lanterns enthrall,
Updraft takes hold,
Celestial fold,
Spirit ascends.

Soaring high,
Heavenward journey,
Serpentine flight,
Guardian of light,
Palace awaits.

Duty complete,
Spirit retreats,
River's domain,
Pure and serene,
Sleep descends, rain.

In a world once muted, sepia-toned and grey,
Your vibrant canvas painted a brighter day.
A riot of colors, a symphony of sound,
Chaos and order, beautifully bound.

Your world, a sanctuary, a passion's flame,
Each brushstroke a story, a heartfelt claim.
Colors reflecting your soul's desire,
A window to your thoughts, a burning fire.

More than just colors, a language untold,
Silent spaces captured, a story bold.
The tension before the spark ignites,
Electricity humming, a sweet delight.

A monochrome existence, dull and plain,
Your technicolor world, a joyful strain.
Hues and shades, a perfect blend,
A world transformed, a loving friend.

Emotions poured, a canvas bare,
Dreams and fears, a loving pair.
A puzzle to solve, a story to tell,
Confessions revealed, a magic spell.

Desires and ambitions, a hidden art,
Deepest thoughts, a loving start.
Intricate patterns, a swirling maze,
Stories waiting, in endless days.

Delving deeper, a new sight,
Eyes opened wide, a guiding light.
A world transformed, a vibrant hue,
A colorful mosaic, me and you.

Years carry less, a foundation strong,
Youthful audacity, a righting wrong.
Irony stings, a sweet surprise,
An old man captivated, beneath his eyes.

Limitations fall, a newfound grace,
Endless possibility, a loving space.
Art, a way of life, a guiding hand,
New eyes to see, across the land.

A sleepwalker, drifting through the night,
Now wide awake, a shining light.
Brushstrokes speak, a silent plea,
Untold stories, wild and free.

Drawn into the depths, a loving art,
Swirl of colors, a beating heart.
The world through your eyes, a different view,
Contrasts and contradictions, ever new.

A mirror reflecting, a soul laid bare,
Confronting fears, a loving care.
Self-discovery, a journey's start,
Liberation and transformation, a loving art.

A kindred spirit, a fellow friend,
Artistic journey, without end.
Exploring boundaries, a daring flight,
A place to belong, a guiding light.

Unleashing colors, a wild display,
A world transformed, a brighter day.
A masterpiece, a loving art,
A bond that unites, a loving start.

Forever changed, a new-found grace,
A part of something, a loving space.
A world alive, with possibility,
Eternally grateful, me and thee

In the depths of 30 years gone by,
Buried feelings, stoic, never seeing eye to eye.
Pulled in multiple directions, a weighty load,
Like Atlas, the world upon my shoulders bestowed.

Three relationships failed, a heart left torn,
The pain of one affecting those I have sworn,
To protect and shield myself from my despair,
Alone I must stand, solitude is my only prayer.

Leaving my family behind as an act of protection,
In the darkness of uncertainty, seeking connection.
Hoping to find a lifeline in this barren land,
To light my way or be consumed by darkness grand.

Abandoned by hope, anger festering within,
Anxiety grips me tight under the shadow's din.
Confusion reigns as I navigate this desolate space,
Fear and frustration etched on my weary face.

In this dystopian world rife with disappointment and failure,
I wander lost, swallowed by the void's dark allure.
Hopelessness and pain echo through the silent night,
The stress of solitude chokes out all light.

A whisper of green, a delicate bloom,
Hemlock's sweet scent, a perfumed tomb.
Innocent petals, so fragile and white,
Concealing a darkness, a final night.

A bitter tang, on the tongue it lies,
A chilling embrace, as the body sighs.
Numbness creeps in, a slow, gentle freeze,
The world fades away, on a chilling breeze.

The limbs grow heavy, the senses grow dim,
A quiet surrender, to fate's cruel whim.
The heartbeats falter, a slowing drum,
As darkness descends, and senses go numb.

The mind still flickers, a fading light,
Aware of the ending, the endless night.
A philosophical question, a final jest,
"I drank what?" he asks, putting fate to the test.

I have this overwhelming feeling
A loneliness I can’t escape
Long days, with thoughts of you
I’m falling in love with you again

I don’t know if you will ever know
How it is to have someone forever in your thoughts
You consume my existence
As my heart cries out, hoping you will hear

Morning hues, a sunrise that brings me light
Remind me of you, your palette of choice
Your brushstrokes upon the canvas
Tells the tale of your heart

Can you feel,
The warmth of my heart?
How it beats for you?
The longing that is deeply engraved upon it?

I am so very lonely
Yet my feelings remain unchanged
An overflowing cup that never empties
As I fall in love with you, again, every day anew

The sun sets, the night sky
Your darkened palette
Brushstrokes painted by the pale moonlight
As the end grows near for the long day

You are So Far Away
My feelings are eternal, never letting go
As I wake every morning to your colors
As I retire every evening to darkened skies

My heart yearns for thee
Unchanged feelings
Can you feel my love across this distance?
The quantum entanglement of our souls?

I have fallen in love with you, every day
A year of longing
Ten months of love-filled thoughts
So far away, but always in my heart

Your laughter, a trill of high notes,
cascading like arpeggios across the ivory keys
of my heart.  Each touch, a melody I crave,
a vibrant chord resonating deep within.

Your eyes, the deep bass notes, holding the weight
of unspoken stories, of passions yet to unfold.
I see the rhythm of your soul in their depths,
a slow, deliberate tempo that draws me in.

Your voice, a mezzo-soprano's caress,
weaving tales of joy and sorrow,
a narrative played out on the strings of my being.
Each word, a carefully placed note, building the symphony
of our intertwined lives.

Like the sustain pedal, your presence lingers,
a constant hum beneath the surface,
coloring every phrase, enriching every passage.
Without it, the music feels incomplete, hollow.

There are moments of dissonance, sharp and jarring,
like a wrong note struck in the heat of the moment.
But even these discordant chords contribute
to the complex harmony of our love.

We are a duet, sometimes playing in unison,
our hands moving together in perfect synchronicity.
Other times, we engage in a playful counterpoint,
each voice distinct, yet contributing to the overall composition.

There are movements of loss, a somber adagio,
where the melody falters, and the silence stretches,
heavy and suffocating.  The music fades to a whisper,
a lament for what was, and what might have been.

But then, a crescendo of hope, a triumphant allegro,
rising from the ashes of despair.
Redemption echoes in the vibrant chords,
a promise of renewal, a testament to the enduring power of love.

And as the final notes fade into a peaceful diminuendo,
I realize that our love is a sonata,
a masterpiece composed of passion, vulnerability,
and the unwavering belief in the transformative power of connection.

In the still of the night, I sit alone
With nothing but my thoughts to keep me company
The darkness envelopes me like a shroud
And I find myself lost in its depths

I watch as the stars twinkle above
Their light so far away, yet so comforting
But it is the aurora that catches my eye
Dancing across the sky, a beautiful display

But even as I gaze upon its beauty
I can't help but feel a sense of loneliness
For you are the light in my life
Yet the darkness surrounds me, suffocating

I long to reach out to you
To feel your warmth and love so true
But you are far away, out of reach
And I am left here, drowning in my thoughts

I think of all the moments we shared
The laughter, the love, the joy
And I realize how much I miss you
How your absence weighs heavy on my heart

I close my eyes and imagine your face
Your smile, your eyes, your touch
And for a moment, I am at peace
But then the darkness creeps back in

I try to push it away, to banish it for good
But it lingers, like a shadow in the night
And I am left feeling lost and alone
Yearning for the light of your presence

So I sit here, staring into the darkness
Searching for a glimmer of hope
A sign that you are thinking of me too
That I am not alone in this vast emptiness

But until that moment comes
I will continue to fight against the darkness
To hold onto the memory of your light
And to keep you close in my heart forever more.

Red dress, modern cut, a nod to tradition.
Not gaudy, not simple, a balance found.
Her hand, offered, a father's blessing unspoken.
Pride mixed with sorrow, a future he won't see.
Love, honor, cherish, the groom's vow, a solemn oath.
Protection promised, a father's final duty.

Tears fall freely, a river of emotions.
Vows exchanged, a seal on a lifetime's journey.
The kiss, a declaration, a new chapter begins.
Then, a flutter, a swarm of butterflies descends.

One lands on her nose, a Blue-Spotted Crow, rare and bold.
Wings unfurl, a vibrant blue against her pale skin.
A message, a whisper, a father's presence felt.
She raises a finger, the butterfly shifts its perch.

A silent conversation, a daughter's tribute.
Prosperity whispered, protection assured.
Love remains, eternal, a bond unbreakable.
The Blue-Spotted Crow, a constant, enduring reminder.

The gesture, her father,
The promise, prosperity,
The honor, protection,
The Love, forever.

This has all happened before
And will all happen again
Learn from the past we are taught
But the same mistakes made, lessons ignored.
The hate of humanity stings
No common ground found
Yet brothers and sisters we are
Lives taken, persons slandered
Ideology trumps common sense
There is no love, no understanding
Centuries of hate, coveting what the other has
Demonizing beliefs because they are different
No filters, just hurtful words
No compassion, only disdain
No understanding, just demands
No helping, only greed
No forward-thinking, only the here-and-now
Humanity is doomed
Repeating the same mistakes
Unable to break the cycle
This has all happened before
And is happening again

The sea, so vast and deep
Full of life, abundance to keep
A barrier reef, a hidden gem
Beneath the waves, a colorful hem

The hues of blue, green, and gold
A masterpiece, a sight to behold
The artist's palette, so vibrant and bright
Love upon the canvas, a beautiful sight

Creatures of the deep, swimming free
Dancing in the waves, pure ecstasy
The coral reefs, a sanctuary below
Where life flourishes, a vibrant show

The sea, a place of mystery and wonder
A world of magic, a spell to be under
The waves crash upon the shore
A symphony of love, forevermore

Inspiring artists, poets, and writers alike
To capture the essence, the beauty so ripe
Love permeates the salty air
A feeling of peace, beyond compare

So let us cherish this gift from above
The sea, a symbol of endless love
May we protect and preserve its grace
For future generations to embrace.

I fell in love, a moment lost to time,
Perhaps a memory, a forgotten rhyme.
A sense of knowing, deeper than the day,
A love that lingered, found its rightful way.

You call me Prince, your anchor in the storm,
The one who showed you, a life reborn.
You found your strength, your peace, your solid ground,
In my embrace, your true self you have found.

And I, in turn, with tender words I call,
My Angel bright, who answers to my thrall.
My Dragon Princess, with a spirit free,
My Muse, inspiring all eternity.

My Sweetest Inspiration, you ignite,
A fire within, that burns ever bright.
My Love, my everything, beneath the sky,
More than the stars that twinkle passing by.

You are the sun, that warms my waking hours,
The moon that guides me, through life's shadowed powers.
You paint my world with colors yet unseen,
A vibrant canvas, where our love has been.

Your laughter echoes, a sweet, melodic sound,
Your gentle touch, where solace can be found.
Your eyes hold worlds, a universe untold,
A story written, in hearts brave and bold.

I found my haven, in your loving gaze,
Through trials faced, and sunlit, peaceful days.
My heart beats only, for your gentle grace,
A sacred space, within your warm embrace.

Our journey weaves, a tapestry of fate,
With threads of gold, where destinies await.
Our love, a beacon, shining through the night,
Guiding our souls, with its unwavering light.

A bond unbreakable, a love so deep and true,
A sanctuary found, between me and you.
Together we rise, on wings of purest white,
Soaring above, in love's eternal light.

My Dragon Princess, fierce and ever strong,
My soul's companion, where we both belong.
In every whisper, every tender sigh,
My love for you, will never truly die.

No fleeting passion, but a timeless vow,
A love eternal, here and ever now.
Exploring depths, of joy and tender bliss,
Sealed with a promise, a soft, loving kiss.

So hand in hand, we'll journey on our way,
Through winding paths, where wild winds gently sway.
Our love's a fortress, standing strong and tall,
My heart's devotion, given once and for all.

And through the ages, our legend will remain,
A love story whispered, through sunshine and through rain.
My Angel, Dragon, Muse, my Love, my life,
A gift from heavens, to end all earthly strife.

Morning sunshine wakes me from my slumber,
The first thing I see is you,
The first things I touch, I feel, I hold...
Is you.

My heart sings with the warmth and joy, a melody of compassion,
A love that you have so generously bestowed upon this old soul,
A smile that fills my face, my eyes wide,
Capturing every beautiful detail of your face.

Sunbeams form rays to light your sleeping form,
Tickling your cheek, sparkling through your hair,
The first thing I reach for is you, caressing your cheek with the back of my fingers,
Brushing the hair from your eyes.

The first thing I smell is the enticing scent of a woman,
Peach blossoms and rose oil fill the air,
The first thing I kiss is your soft pouty lips; blushed and supple,
The first thing I see .... is you.

A storm descends upon Iceland, a howling beast unleashed. Roaring winds claw at the land, ancient stones tremble. Blustering fury whips across the frozen plains, a white whirlwind. Tempestuous waves crash against the cliffs, a raging titan's fist. A squall carries whispers of Jötunheimr, the giants' frozen realm. The blast of winter's breath chills to the bone, a frost giant's sigh. Gale-force winds tear through valleys, a chorus of the ******. The sea roils, a cauldron of wrath, stirred by unseen hands. Where the land ends, the ocean begins, a battleground of elements. Jagged lightning splits the sky, a god's angry eye. Frost-covered trees groan beneath the weight, their branches like skeletal arms. The raw power of nature is unleashed, a spectacle of destruction. Wrath pours forth from the heavens, a torrent of icy daggers. In this winter's grip, time falters, caught in the storm's embrace. One strains to hear the echoes of Odin's voice in the wind's howl. The spirits of old stir, awakened by the tempest's fury.

Snowflakes dance a frenzied jig, weaving patterns on the frozen air. The mountains bow before the storm's might, humbled giants. Icicles hang like the teeth of a monstrous beast, ready to strike. Each raindrop a tear shed by the sky, a lament for the land. The world is shrouded in white, a canvas of chaos and despair. In the heart of the storm, whispers linger, tales of forgotten ages. Memories of warmth fade, like embers in the face of the blizzard. Yet, even in this chaos, a fierce beauty resides, a primal strength. The light of resilience flickers in distant homes, a beacon in the dark. Tales of giants and gods are shared, binding hearts against the storm. The warmth of the hearth beckons, a refuge from the raging world. Those who brave the tempest wait, their spirits unbroken.

For storms, like the gods themselves, are bound by time. The darkest night yields to the dawn's gentle kiss. Silence returns to the ravaged coast, a fragile peace descends. The wrath subsides, spent, leaving behind a quiet strength. Nature breathes a sigh, a slow release from winter's grip. The old gods watch from Asgard, their wisdom etched in stone. For all storms, however fierce, must eventually pass. Echoes remain, reminders of the power that sleeps within. The world turns once more, beneath a sky that knows both fury and calm. The land remembers, the storm's mark etched into its soul. From the heart of winter, The Howling of Giants echoes still.

I dreamt of a haven,
A house on the beach,
White picket fence,
A mirage of peace.

Sunsets ablaze,
Painting the sky with fire,
Waves whispering secrets,
A gentle breeze, a sweet desire.

Children's laughter,
Echoes on the sand,
Chasing retreating waves,
A childhood, forever planned.

I saw us there,
Two souls entwined,
Rockers swaying,
A love sublime.

Her hand in mine,
A comforting embrace,
A gentle sigh,
A love's serene space.

But then she awoke,
From this idyllic scene,
The house, a mere shell,
A fleeting, transient dream.

For home, she declared,
Is not a place, a shore,
But a feeling, a heart,
Where love forevermore.

Breaking the cycle, a new chapter begins,
Two hearts beating as one,
A love so pure, a love so true,
Together, we have overcome.

The past is behind us, a distant memory,
Filled with pain and sorrow,
But here we stand, hand in hand,
No looking back, no more tomorrow.

With each new day, a fresh start,
As we journey on this path,
Side by side, we face the world,
Together, we will laugh and laugh.

Gone are the days of loneliness,
Of heartache and despair,
In your arms, I find solace,
With you, I have no fear.

You are my everything, my rock,
The one who holds me close,
With you, I feel complete,
In your love, I am engrossed.

So here we are, a new beginning,
A chance to start anew,
Breaking the cycle of the past,
A love so strong, so true.

As we walk hand in hand
Towards a brighter tomorrow,
Our love will guide us through,
A new chapter begins, no more sorrow.

In the tapestry of time,  
woven with threads of our laughter,  
we embarked on a journey,  
through seasons of whispered dreams.  
From sunlit mornings to moon-kissed nights,  
each moment a brushstroke on our canvas,  
painted in hues of devotion and delight.  

Together we’ve scaled mountains—  
the summit’s air thin, yet intoxicating.  
Love cradled in the altitude,  
as adventure danced beneath our feet.  
Your hand in mine, a compass unyielding,  
guiding us through forests of uncertainty;  
every path igniting sparks in the twilight.  

Years blend into years like colors mixing,  
and what was once a gentle flame,  
now roars with passion against the frost—  
a wild fire that warms our days and nights.  
Each glance a promise whispered with conviction,  
every touch a spell that binds us tighter.  

Can you feel it? The heartbeat of our journey—  
an echo of laughter among the stars.  
You are my map and my wayfinder,  
and with each kiss we plant seeds for tomorrow;  
dreams flourish like vines in sunlight,  
reaching out into futures unknown.  

Let us dream beneath sprawling skies—  
designing lives filled with offspring laughter,  
watching as they leap into their own odyssey.  
With each hug that holds the world together,  
we craft realms where love conquers all fears—  
in every shared breath honoring this deep bond.  

How adeptly we navigate uncharted waters!    
Double sunsets await when shadows chase the day;    
your smile lights up horizons leading forward—    
and still I marvel at how far we’ve climbed!    
The paths may twist through valleys steep and wide,    
yet here we stand—not just content but bursting!    

In every ordinary moment I see magic bloom—  
a testament to companionship forged in fire;    
with gratitude nestled deep within my heart—  
the warmth of your essence wraps around me like cotton.  
So here’s to us—the mapmakers and explorers!    
Let us continue crafting this tale with fervent hearts.    

And when darkness creeps upon our brightest hours,    
let it find us weaving love blankets as soft as whispers;    
for beyond adversity grows an orchard of hope—    
grounded in trust while reaching for evermore.  

Each “I love you” lingers sweet upon your lips,
infinite echo reverberating through lifetimes.
Kisses seal promises under starlit canvases,
as arms embrace infinity folded within spaces,
always ending tenderly—a rhythm eternal,
an ode to this adventure: you and I together.

The sea is a cold and restless entity,
A deep, unending trough of brine and foam.
Its surface reflects the shifting skies,
A field of endless, heaving water.

The waves rise, great mountains of the deep,
Then crash and fall upon the shore.
Their strength a constant, unrelenting force,
That land cannot overcome or ignore.

The open sea holds mystery unseen,
A shadowed place where waves collide and break.
The flux and flow, a ceaseless, silent scene,
A constant dance that nature subtly makes.

The tide comes and goes at measured pace,
An ancient rhythm of ebb and swell.
Its pull a gravitational, powerful grace,
That rules the coasts and where wild things dwell.

The current runs, a river in the sea,
A hidden path where life finds its own way.
A constant shift, a moving tapestry,
Of hidden things it carries night and day.

Beneath the waves, a kingdom dark and strange,
Where creatures swim in depths beyond our ken.
An unknown world, a wonder to exchange
For all the treasures and the toils of men.

The salt spray stings, a bitter, bracing kiss,
Upon the face of those who brave the sea.
A humbling power, wild and full of bliss,
Both beautiful and terrible to decree.

The ocean vast and ever free,
Remains a mystery, both loved and feared.
Its power timeless, for eternity,
A constant presence, ever held revered.

Spring, a hesitant touch, like the first unfurling of a fern.  Sunlight, a pale gold wash over new green shoots, mirroring the shy blossoming of our affection.  Stolen glances, quick as the darting of hummingbirds, a shared laugh, light as the breeze whispering through willow branches.  The air thick with the promise of something more, a burgeoning warmth that melts the last frost of doubt.  We walk hand in hand, the earth beneath our feet soft and yielding, a reflection of our hearts opening to each other.  The scent of hyacinth and damp earth, a heady perfume that intoxicates the senses, a prelude to the vibrant summer to come.

Summer, a blaze of color, a riot of sensation.  Days long and languid, stretching out like sun-drenched meadows.  Our love, a sunflower turning its face to the light, bold and unapologetic.  Passionate embraces, as fierce as a summer storm, leaving us breathless and renewed.  We swim in lakes, cool and dark, our bodies slick with water, mirroring the depths of our feelings.  The taste of ripe berries, sweet and ****, lingers on our tongues, a reminder of the sweetness we’ve found in each other.  Fireflies ignite the twilight, tiny sparks of light mirroring the fire that burns between us.

Autumn, a tapestry of russet and gold, a time of mellow reflection.  Our love, a vintage wine, rich and complex, aged to perfection.  Long walks through forests ablaze with color, leaves crunching beneath our feet like whispered secrets.  We gather close, drawn together by the chill in the air, finding warmth in each other’s arms.  The scent of woodsmoke and cinnamon, a comforting aroma that fills our home, a sanctuary built for two.  Our conversations deepen, like the lengthening shadows of late afternoon, exploring the hidden corners of our souls.  We are grateful for the harvest of our love, the bounty of shared experiences.

Winter, a blanket of white, a time of quiet intimacy.  Our love, a flickering candle in a darkened room, a beacon of warmth and light.  Snow falls softly outside, muffling the world, creating a cocoon of peace around us.  We curl up by the fire, wrapped in blankets, sharing stories and dreams.  Hot chocolate, rich and creamy, warms our hands and our hearts.  The silence is filled with unspoken words, a language of love that transcends all others.  Our bond, like the evergreen trees, remains strong and steadfast, enduring the harshest of winters.

And as the seasons turn again, as spring’s first blush returns, I long to walk this path with you once more.  Each bud, each bloom, each ray of sunshine, each falling leaf, each snowflake, a reminder of the beauty we’ve created together.  I want to relive every moment, every touch, every word, every season of our love, again and again, forever.

I see the world through your eyes
The brushstrokes on your canvas
Telling the tales of your heart; Joy and sadness
I see you, behind the masks, through the façade you project

I see you, in all your beauty and imperfections
The serpent lay in protection across your arm
The three-toed dragon upon your back, granting you strength
White ribbon, a bow tying back your ebony hair.

The script of your culture lay bare upon your slender neck.
The twinkle in your eyes, as they smile back at me.
The curl of your lips just before you laugh.
The gentle biting of the bottom, enticing mischievous thoughts

You are a friend, who became more.
One whom you allowed to walk in your garden.
One whom you confided in, who let me comfort you with words of encouragement.
You are someone I fell in love with, as I learned you fell for me too.

Can’t you see, my love
You are the one, the one who makes me whole
You are the one, the one that makes me dream again
You are the one, The Shape of My Happiness

The Milky Way, a silver ribbon,
drapes across the velvet night.
Stars, diamonds scattered on black velvet,
twinkle, a celestial cacophony.
We, two amorists, beneath this grand display,
find solace in each other's gaze.

The moon, a pale pearl,
casts an ethereal glow,
illuminating the path
that leads us to this Elysian field.
Here, beneath the ancient oak,
our souls intertwine,
a nexus of love,
born under the watchful gaze of the cosmos.

Comets, with fiery tails,
race across the inky canvas,
leaving trails of stardust
in their wake.
These celestial wanderers,
like our fleeting moments,
burn bright and ephemeral,
leaving behind a trail of memories.

Planets, distant and mysterious,
orbit in silent symphony,
a cosmic ballet
unfolding before our eyes.
In this vast universe,
we find our own orbit,
bound by an invisible force,
a love that transcends the stars.

The universe, a vast and indifferent entity,
yet it conspires
to bring us together.
Under the watchful gaze of the cosmos,
our love story unfolds,
a testament to the enduring power
of human connection.

And as we gaze into each other's eyes,
we know that our love,
like the stars,
will forever shine bright,
a beacon of hope
in the vastness of the universe.

I feel the distance,
a growing expanse
between where we stand,
and where we used to be.
A little piece of you
slips away each day,
and with it, a part of me.

My words, meant as bridges,
sometimes fall short,
missing the mark,
lost in the vastness.
I try to weave tapestries
of love, comfort, and desire,
but they seem to unravel
before they reach you.

This isn't the final chapter,
but the erosion is real.
It gnaws at the edges
of my being,
a constant reminder
of the space between us.
In the quiet of the night,
the cold and the loneliness
become a heavy blanket.

I search for the light,
the warmth that once flowed freely,
but a cloak of despair
seems to thicken,
obscuring everything.
My voice, it seems,
doesn't carry far enough,
or perhaps it's the wrong melody,
a dissonance
that may have caused hurt.

I tell you that you are seen,
valued, exquisite, complex.
I whisper of my love,
but the voices of anxiety
in your world
seem to drown me out.
I fear my words
are lost in the noise,
unheard, unheeded.

I long for you to see me,
as I see you.
To feel me,
as I feel you.
To bridge this chasm
that stretches between us.
Tell me the truth,
even if it's the hardest truth.
I need to know,
so I can find my way back,
or find my way forward,
without losing myself
completely.

In the darkest night, you are my guiding light,
A beacon in the storm, shining bright.
Through turbulent seas and winds that howl,
You are the one who calms my soul.

Your presence is a source of strength,
A refuge from life’s trials and lengths.
In times of doubt and fear, you stand by,
A steady presence, never questioning why.

We weather the storms together,
Facing whatever challenges may sever.
With you as my anchor, I am safe,
No matter how the waves may chafe.

In your eyes, I find solace and peace,
A sanctuary where all worries cease.
Your touch is a gentle caress,
A reminder of all that we possess.

The world may shift and change,
But our love remains the same.
A bond that is unbreakable and true,
A beacon in the storm, always shining through.

In moments of darkness and despair,
You are the one who is always there.
With your hand in mine, I find strength,
A beacon in the storm, guiding me to a better length.

So thank you for being my beacon,
A light that shines bright, never weaken.
In the storms of life, I know I can always find,
A source of love and peace, in you, I can unwind.

Can you feel the echo of my heart across the miles?
A whisper on the wind, a constant, silent plea.
You are my heaven, a constellation in the dark,
And I, a lonely traveler, forever drawn to thee.
I trace the phantom curves of your face in my dreams,
Aching for the moment our worlds finally align.

Can I hold you tonight, just in the realm of thought?
I conjure the warmth of your skin, the scent of your hair.
Your kiss, a phantom fire, still burns upon my lips,
A memory cherished, a treasure beyond compare.
But doubt, a creeping shadow, whispers in my ear,
"Is this love's sweet promise, or a mirage we chase?"

Sometimes, The Weight of Absence becomes too much to bear,
And I long to vanish, to fade into the gray.
To crawl beneath the covers, shielded from the world,
Where vulnerability's sharp edges can't cut and flay.
Yet, a fragile hope remains, a flickering ember's glow,
That you see the real me, the one I'm afraid to show.

I have loved you fiercely, from the very first spark,
A connection so profound, it transcends space and time.
You whisper your love, a melody sweet and low,
But the distance, a vast ocean, makes your voice seem faint, a chime.
And I'm left adrift, on waves of doubt and fear,
Wondering if my love's reflection is truly clear.

You say I am your one, the moon to your tide,
And I echo the sentiment, with every fiber of my being.
Yet, miles stretch between us, an unyielding divide,
Stealing precious moments, leaving me only yearning and seeing
Your face in photographs, a bittersweet delight,
Fueling the flame of hope, amidst the lonely night.

Oh, to stand upon your shore, to bridge this aching gap,
To feel the solid ground beneath my trembling feet.
To finally silence the whispers of what ifs,
And know, beyond all doubt, our love is truly complete.
Until then, I'll cling to dreams, and whisper your name,
Praying the dawn will break, and banish all the pain.

A box, small and unassuming,
holds more than metal and stone.
Three rings, each a chapter closed,
a story whispered, then silenced.

The first, a Hawaiian sun,
gold warm against my skin,
a maile leaf lei etched in enamel,
a promise of island days,
a love as bright as the tropic bloom.
But the bloom faded, the sun set,
and the lei withered, a memory
of sand and surf, and a love
that sought solace in another's arms.

The second, silver, a simple band,
smooth and cool against my finger.
A barrel, strong and unadorned,
like the love we built, or so I thought.
A quiet strength, a steady hand,
a foundation laid, brick by painful brick.
But the foundation crumbled, the walls fell,
and the silver tarnished, a reflection
of a love that found comfort elsewhere.

The third, titanium, cold and hard,
dragons entwined in gold, a symbol
of power, of a love that burned bright.
A fierce embrace, a passionate fire,
a connection that felt unbreakable.
But the fire dwindled, the dragons slept,
and the titanium grew heavy, a weight
on my hand, a reminder of a love
that sought warmth in another's gaze.

Children grown, their laughter echoes
in the empty rooms of my heart.
Their friends, once my own, now strangers,
their lives moving forward, while I remain
anchored to the past, a silent observer.
A long-distance love, a whispered promise,
a fragile thread connecting two souls,
but the distance stretches, the thread thins,
and the whispers fade into the wind.

I stare at the box, at the rings within,
each a symbol of what was, what could have been.
A new ring beckons, a design forming
in the depths of my mind, a symbol of hope,
of a future yet unwritten.
But doubt whispers, a serpent in my ear,
was it me? Was I not enough?
Or were the circles simply incomplete,
destined to break, to shatter, to fade?
The Weight of Circles, heavy on my soul.

The cadence of the drill sergeant, a ghost in the present,
echoes in the rhythm of my pen.
Discipline forged in the crucible of steel,
now fuels the fire of my art.
The enemy then, the fear, the loss,
a distant memory, yet the weight of loyalty remains.

My love, an artist, paints with colors I cannot name,
capturing the essence of the soul,
a symphony of emotions, a dance of light and shadow.
She is the muse, the inspiration,
the reason this heart still beats with a fierce, protective rhythm.

The scars run deep, both physical and unseen,
reminders of battles fought and won.
But the greatest battle, the one that truly matters,
is the fight for her, for our love.
This fragile, precious bloom,
deserves the fiercest protection.

The Marine within, dormant yet ever-present,
would rise, a silent guardian,
against any threat, any darkness that dares to touch her.
His loyalty, once sworn to the Corps,
now belongs to her,
a love that transcends all boundaries.

In the quiet moments, when the world fades away,
I see her eyes, reflecting the stars,
a universe of emotions, a love that knows no bounds.
And in that reflection, I find my strength,
a renewed sense of purpose,
a love that would die for her, a thousand times over.

The poet and the Marine, two sides of the same coin,
bound by a love that defies definition.
A love that heals, that inspires,
that gives life new meaning.
And in that love, I find my peace,
a solace that surpasses all understanding.

The air hangs heavy,
a suffocating blanket
of unspoken words.
Your silence, a deafening roar,
echoes through the empty spaces
where your voice used to reside.

I search for meaning in the shadows,
tracing the lines of your absence,
deciphering the unspoken language
of your withdrawal.
Each beat of my heart
a desperate plea for connection.

The world feels muted,
colors drained,
joy a distant memory.
Your laughter, once a melody,
now a haunting refrain
playing on repeat in the emptiness.

I long for the warmth of your gaze,
the touch of your hand,
the rhythm of your breath
against my skin.
But all I receive
is the chilling silence
of your indifference.

This agonizing wait,
this constant ache,
is slowly eroding my resolve.
I'm drowning in a sea of doubt,
desperate for a lifeline,
a single word,
a sign that you still care.

And in the quiet desperation,
I whisper your name
into the void,
hoping against hope
that somehow,
somehow,
you can hear the echo
of my despair.

The year Rose turned sixteen,
I was lost in the haze of my own life,
unaware of the world unfolding around me.
I saw her grow taller, her voice deepen,
but I failed to see the woman she was becoming.

With Daisy, at sixteen,
a whirlwind of energy and passion erupted –
a force of nature I couldn't contain or calm.
I saw her dreams taking flight,
but words of encouragement stuck in my throat.

Laurel, at sixteen,
was a quiet observer, a deep thinker –
intelligence and sensitivity shone bright.
Yet, I struggled to connect on her level,
to speak the language of her gentle heart.

And Lilly, sixteen –
a mirror image of her mother, Maggie's beauty –
reminded me of love I'd once held close.
I saw potential blooming, heart full of pride,
but past regrets silenced my voice.

As years passed, daughters blossomed –
each unique petal unfolding –
I witnessed accomplishments, struggles, and strength.
But pride and love remained unspoken –
hidden beneath fear of emotional reckoning.

Now, as life fades, I confront
missed years, words left unspoken,
love I failed to show – heavy regrets weigh.
Can Maggie and our daughters forgive
the father I should have been, the love I withheld?

To Maggie, My Love
In dying light, my heart sees clearly –
your patience, devotion, and gentle soul.
You nurtured our daughters through my haze,
loved them – and me – without condition.

Forgive my silence, my absent heart –
yours was the love that kept our family whole.
Take care of our girls, and know you were
my forever love – the one I should have held closer.

In the quiet of the evening, under a blanket of stars
I find myself lost in thoughts of you, my love
The way your smile lights up your face
And the gentle touch of your hand on mine

Our love is like a gentle river, flowing steadily
Through days of sun and nights of moonlit skies
With each passing moment, our bond grows stronger
And our hearts beat as one in perfect harmony

I am captivated by the depth of your eyes
The way they hold a thousand unspoken words
And in that silent gaze, I find solace
Knowing that our love will withstand any storm

You are my rock, my anchor in the stormy seas
My shelter from the harsh winds of life
With you by my side, I am whole
And together, we will conquer the world

So let us dance under the moonlight
And whisper secrets to the night sky
For in each other's arms, we are home
Our love a flame that will never die.

I am forever grateful for the love we share
For in your arms, I have found my paradise
And in your heart, I have found my home
My love for you will never fade, my dear.

We walk hand in hand, under the stars,
Lost in each other, forgetting our scars.
The world fades away, just you and me,
In this moment of pure ecstasy.

I feel your heartbeat, steady and true,
A rhythm that only beats for you.
You are my anchor, my guiding light,
In this sea of darkness, you make everything right.

I cherish every moment we share,
For in your arms, I have found my solace and care.
You are my love, my partner in crime,
Together we'll conquer all, one heartbeat at a time.

So let's embrace this love we've found,
With every heartbeat, let's make a sound.
For in this world so full of chaos and strife,
Our love is the one constant in this beautiful life.

The canvas of our lives, a year of shades,
Of stormy hues and shadows deeply laid.
But through the tempest, hand in hand we stayed,
Our love a beacon, fear and doubt allayed.

You, my artist, with colors bold and bright,
Painted resilience, bathed our world in light.
Your strokes of courage, turning darkest night,
Into a dawn where hope and love ignited.

My sweetest addiction, your soul, a vibrant hue,
My strongest inspiration, forever seeing you.
There's no mountain high, no challenge we can't subdue.
As long as you are mine, forever and anew.

For you, my love, I'll climb the highest peak,
A loyal guide, the work my heart will speak.
My best friend, my confidante, forever meek,
Whenever you may need me, I will never forsake.

I'll cherish every moment, every whispered phrase,
Your laughter, your tears, the love that softly sways.
Each passing day, my love for you ablaze,
A fire burning brighter in a wondrous haze.

The world may dim, but with you, my love's aflame,
Chasing shadows, whispering your name.
A dream come true, erasing every pain,
My sweetest addiction, forever and again.

I'll hold you close, my love, a tender embrace,
Never letting go, this love with find it's place.
In every sunrise, every moonlit space,
My love for you, a timeless, sacred grace.

The first notes, a hesitant tremolo,
a digital dance, a whispered prelude.
Sensuality, a primal current, surged through the ether,
a perversity born of longing,
a digital playground where passion ignited.

Beyond the flesh, a deeper melody,
emotions entwined, a rich harmony.
Doubts, like minor keys, fears, like dissonant chords,
laid bare in the cadences of candid confessions.

I, your haven, a refuge from life's tempest,
a steadfast anchor in the stormy seas.
My declaration, "You are the woman of my life,"
a soaring crescendo, echoing eternally.

No music can capture the essence,
this symphony born of our shared breath.
Your presence, a timeless rhapsody,
a masterpiece forever unfinished,
played by the stars, a celestial orchestra.

Together, we journey,
a rhythmic duet, through time and space,
composing a love song of infinite variations.
One note, a tender caress, one touch,
a passionate fortissimo, one whispered word,
a pianissimo, a symphony of souls, forever entwined.

There is no end, my love, only brief rests,
a pause between the movements,
a breath before the next crescendo.
For in the harmony of our hearts,
the music plays on, eternally.

In this life, I have had my struggles—
Mankind’s abuse, intolerance, wars, and corruption.
And no different were the personal aspects:
love, home, happiness—
All fleeting, no peace, within or external.

Then, I found you.

At first, I sought tranquility—
An ear to bend, a friendship perhaps.
Yet, you needed serenity, a peace within.
So, it was I who lent the ear, the shoulder, the words of understanding.

In this endeavor, I saw in you a trampled blossom—
Damaged, bent, a bit broken, but not a loss.
You just needed someone, anyone, to care,
To show you the light through the dark.

So, I listened, I nurtured,
Shown light, provided warmth,
Fed you, and caressed the soil with tears,
Until you felt whole again.

To be clear, I didn’t fix you;
I didn’t mold you.
You were whole, you were full of worth.
I only let you see what I see in you.

In turn, you saw me, as I saw you—
Someone discarded on the refuse of life.
Imparted, nay, reciprocated, the kindness you had received,
Knowing that I, like you, lay scarred and injured, but not a loss.

Tranquility and Serenity—
Words often interchanged,
But both have meanings that aren’t quite the same.
For one is peace in your surroundings, and the other is peace from within.

You cannot seek one
Without discovering and embracing the other.
Two sides of the same coin, like Yin and Yang,
Always seeking balance.

You guided me,
Lighting my way through the darkest moments.
I held steadfast, unwavering—the rock you needed,
A new foundation to build upon.

I confess this truth to you,
As you have given both, reciprocal,
As I have given unto you.

Time will tell.
This story has not ended.
It is still being written—
A journey to destinations unknown.

And all because,
I FOUND YOU.

In frigid shadows of a broken vow,
My heart, a prisoner, in silence cries.
Forced to yield, unseen chains bind me now,
Where love's cold absence breeds a storm that sighs.

She walks unburdened, draped in self-made light,
A queen unstained by tears my spirit weeps.
My yearnings mocked, a one-sided plight,
Betrayal's embers where true passion sleeps.

A barren wasteland, where our dreams lay slain,
Hope's fragile bud choked by a loveless rain.
My silent screams unheard, a whispered pain,
Lost in the darkness, love's deceptive chain.

Isolation's grip, a serpent's cold embrace,
Tightens around me, fueled by her cold grace.
I reach out, grasping for a fleeting trace,
Of the love we once shared, now displaced.

Invisible chains bind me to the past,
Memories haunt me, can't escape at last.
Like a ghost, I wander lost, outcast,
Trapped in a love that couldn't ever last.

Each link in the chain is a bitter regret,
Moments lost forever, I can't forget.
I'm shackled to a love I can't reset,
Tangled in a web of love and debt.

The weight of the chains bears down on my soul,
A heavy burden I can't control.
I long to break free, to finally be whole,
But the chains hold tight, taking their toll.

Unseen chains, invisible but strong,
Bind me to a love that's gone so wrong.
I'm trapped in a cycle, where I don't belong,
A prisoner of love's haunting song.

I search for a key to unlock the chains,
To free myself from these loveless pains.
But the chains remain, a reminder of stains,
Of a love lost in sorrowful refrains.

I long for freedom, for release from this plight,
To soar like a bird in the clear, free light.
To break these chains that bind me so tight,
And finally find peace in the still of night.

But until that day comes, I'll endure the pain,
Of living with these unseen chains.
Bound to a love that's left me drained,
Haunted by memories that still remain.

Unseen chains, a burden unseen,
A weight that crushes all my dreams.
But I'll keep on fighting, despite how it seems,
For one day, I'll break free from these loveless schemes.

In memory of the fallen heroes, I stand
A US Marine who bore witness to war's hand
Bravery and sacrifice, are etched in my mind
As I carry the weight of the ones left behind

Medals shine brightly on my chest
But they feel heavy, a constant test
For I did not earn them, not truly
The real heroes are gone, so unruly

Gallantry, Valor, Honor, Hero
These words now feel so hollow
For it was my brothers who truly deserved
To be honored, respected, and preserved

I fought in battles afar, and I survived
While they lay on the battlefield, deprived
Of the chance to come back home
To their families, where they truly belong

I am unworthy of these accolades
For I live, while they lie in their graves
Their memory lives on in my heart
As I carry their legacy, I am never apart

So here lies a US Marine
Proud to have served, yet still unseen
For the real heroes are the ones who fell
Amid the battle, where they dwelled

Rest in peace, my brothers in arms
For you are the true heroes, with all your charms
I will never forget the sacrifices you made
And I will honor you, until my final day.

A whisper of jade, the night descends,
Upon the eastern sky, it lends
A blush, a stain, a crimson hue,
The moon, a pearl, reborn anew.

Not silver bright, but painted red,
As if the heavens themselves had bled.
A carp leaps high, to touch its face,
And finds within, a lonely space.

Chang'e's cold palace, crystal bright,
Reflects the sanguine, eerie light.
No rabbit grinds the jade elixir there,
But shadows dance, and chilling air.

The willow weeps, a spectral green,
Where once a lovers' tryst was seen.
Now only ghosts, with sighs so deep,
Their mournful vigil softly keep.

The Weaver Girl, her loom unbound,
No longer weaves, on sacred ground.
The Milky Way, a river wide,
Keeps her from her love's embrace, denied.

The Magpies fly, a restless flock,
Their cries unheard, upon the rock
Where once they formed a bridge so grand,
Now scattered far, across the land.

The Dragon King, in slumber deep,
Dreams of the pearls, the oceans keep.
He stirs, and clouds begin to swirl,
A crimson tide, the world to whirl.

The Fox spirit, with eyes so sly,
Watches the moon, as moments fly.
She dreams of power, beauty's grace,
And human hearts, she longs to chase.

The Mountain spirits, old and wise,
Observe the scene, with knowing eyes.
They've seen the moon in shades of white,
And crimson red, in darkest night.

They've seen the rise and fall of kings,
The joys and sorrows, time it brings.
They've seen the love that knows no end,
And broken hearts, that cannot mend.

The Crimson Moon, a silent guide,
Across the heavens, it does ride.
A witness to the tales untold,
Of heroes brave, and spirits bold.

The wind it sighs, a mournful tune,
Beneath the gaze of Crimson Moon.
A lonely beauty, stark and grand,
Across this mystical, ancient land.

The stars they dim, before its might,
Lost in the crimson, eerie light.
A painted scroll, across the sky,
Where legends live, and stories lie.

The moon hangs heavy, low and red,
As if the very heavens bled.
A potent symbol, dark and deep,
While mortals dream, and secrets sleep.

The night grows old, the moon descends,
Its crimson glow, at last, it lends
To dawn's embrace, a fading hue,
Until it rises, once anew.

And in its light, we see again,
The magic, myth, and lore of men.
The Crimson Moon, a timeless tale,
Of love and loss, that will not fail.

Is it the silence that stretches between us,
a chasm carved by unspoken words?
Or the echo of arguments,
reverberating in the empty spaces we inhabit?

Did the rhythm of our lives fall out of sync,
when the new job demanded more than just time?
Or when the baby arrived,
and sleep became a forgotten luxury?

Does the weight of the world,
press down so heavily on your shoulders,
that there's no room left for me?
Or is it my own anxieties,
that build walls between our hearts?

Have we grown in different directions,
like branches reaching for sunlight,
oblivious to the roots entwined beneath the soil?
Or has the fire of intimacy dwindled,
leaving only embers of what once burned bright?

Are there needs I haven't acknowledged,
a yearning for something I can't quite name?
Or is it a weariness of the soul,
a longing for a peace I cannot find?

Could the shadows of depression,
or the whispers of anxiety,
be clouding your perception of our love?
Or is it simply the mundane,
the everyday grind that dulls the senses?

Is this distance a temporary detour,
a bump in the road we can overcome together?
Or a signpost,
pointing towards separate paths?

Is Valentine's Day just a reminder,
of the closeness we once shared?
Or an opportunity,
to rekindle the flame that flickers low?

Is love a constant,
or a fragile bloom,
requiring constant care and attention?
Or is it a choice,
a daily decision to stay,
even when the road gets rough?

And the ultimate question,
hanging heavy in the air tonight,
as the scent of roses mingles with uncertainty:
is this love worth fighting for?

I saw you from a distance
A beauty with an eye for art
A talent that drew me to you
An interest to know, not hold
I knew this was a distance I needed to close

Captivated by your presence
Learning of your past
The pain and anxiety
Of broken hearts and trust
Kindred spirits with tales of betrayal

We shared this pain
Both broken and abandoned
Was it destiny or fate?
Console each other we did
And with this, a new chapter begins

The walls started to crumble
For me and her
As the friendship grew, I fumbled with feelings
Respect and kindness, mutually given
Stirring a dormant passion, long thought extinct

She didn’t know, I tried to hide it
The volcano of emotions coming to life
Once again, my heart started to pound
Stuck in my throat, silence from my mouth.
Confusion took root, creating self-doubt

I took a step back, a break to discover
Stomach in knots, and introspective look
Love for a friend had been sparked
A fire in my heart had been stoked.
20 years of cold, and now a new warmth

She seems to like me
Though I question why
She seems to love me, I love her more
As she opens my heart, as she opens mine
My words seem to flow as our love grows

I am not handsome, I am not rich
I am honest, I am kind
I have wisdom from my world of pain
But she seems to love me, and I know not why
As questions go unanswered, She says she is mine.

How did I get so lucky, I ponder
This beauty who loves a beast
Self-doubt and worth are heavy in my thoughts
And I pose the question to her
What did I do to deserve her?

Generations apart
Was I born too early
Was she born too late
Love is love, and age but a number
What did I do to deserve her?

Her answer quells my curiosity
Astonishment of a young beauty
Wise beyond her years
My words, my kindness sparked her flame
But it was my respect and actions that fueled the fire

She claims me, forever she says
I claim her, ‘til the end of time
We acknowledge our faults
Aspirations and dreams
Nothing is perfect, but we will sustain

A loving couple lost in each other
Longing and yearning for the one that completes us
Heals our heart, mends our soul
She is my greatest love
And I am hers.

Dedicated to the woman I love
I still don’t deserve you but am happy you chose me

Beneath this stone, a light once shone,
A son laid down, the battles won.
In tender arms, a dream to hold,
A mother's heart, forever cold.

Though time may pass and shadows creep,
In memories bright, your spirit keeps.
Each whispered word, each silent prayer,
In every tear, you linger there.

No path more cruel than this we tread,
For parents mourn the child who’s fled.
Yet love remains, a guiding light,
In darkest hours, your soul takes flight.

So here we stand, our hearts entwined,
In grief, in love, forever bind.
Though life's cruel twist has sought to part,
You live forever in our heart.

a chipped porcelain doll
on a velvet swing
(one eye staring blankly
at the chandelier dust)

a whispered promise
in a room full of smoke
and cheap perfume
(a hand clutching a wilted rose)

chalk outlines of angels
on a dance floor sticky
with spilled champagne
(laughter echoing hollowly
like a broken metronome)

a bride in black lace
a groom with eyes like ice
(a ceremony performed
by a marionette priest)

the ***** wheezes a dirge
masquerading as a love song
(a chorus of whispers:
"cut the cake, cut the ties,
cut the cord to reality")

confetti of regrets
falling like ash
on a forgotten dream
(a photograph torn in half,
one piece smoldering)

a masquerade ball
where everyone wears
the same mask of happiness
(a single tear escapes,
tracing a path through the paint)

the clinking of glasses
a symphony of unspoken lies
(a toast to the future,
built on foundations of sand)

a heart-shaped box
filled with broken promises
and moth-eaten memories
(a child's drawing of a sun
hidden beneath the debris)

a silent scream
trapped in a gilded cage
(a bird beating its wings
against the bars of expectation)

a love story rewritten
with ink that bleeds
and words that twist
(a fairytale turned nightmare,
a happily ever after
left on the cutting room floor)

the scent of decay
mingling with the sweetness
of artificial flowers
(a wedding cake left to rot,
a symbol of love gone sour)

a chorus of disapproval
humming beneath the surface
of polite conversation
(a family portrait fractured,
the pieces scattered like leaves)

a single spotlight
illuminating the emptiness
of a hollow victory
(a crown of thorns,
a throne of lies)

a Whisper in the Dark:
"I write sins, not tragedies"
(but the ink stains the soul,
and the tragedies unfold
in the silence that follows).

In the stillness of the night,
Underneath a blanket of stars,
I find myself lost in thoughts of you,
Aching for your presence from afar.

The distance between us feels infinite,
Yet I feel your spirit close to mine,
Whispering sweet nothings in the wind,
Reminding me of the love we intertwine.

As I gaze up at the starry sky,
I am reminded of how vast the universe is,
And yet how small and insignificant I feel,
Without you here to share in its bliss.

I remember the last time we were together,
The way your eyes sparkled like the stars above,
How your laughter filled the room with joy,
And how my heart swelled with love.

But now you are miles away,
And all I have are memories to hold onto,
I find myself crying in the darkness,
Longing for your touch to see me through.

But in the quiet of the night,
I have a revelation so clear,
No matter the distance that divides us,
My love for you will always be near.

I pledge my devotion to you,
Across the expanse of time and space,
For you are the beat of my heart,
The light in my darkest days.

In the hush of darkness, beneath the starry gaze,
I find solace in the echo of your voice,
Across distance vast, my heart still ablaze,
Longing for the warmth of your embrace, my choice.

I find solace in the thought of you,
And the thought of us together again,
Building a future filled with love and laughter,
Where every moment is worth the pain.

Each night I wander through the midnight sky,
Gazing at the twinkling stars so far above,
Their light a reminder of our love's sweet lullaby,
As I whisper to the heavens all about my love.

So as I lie beneath the starry night,
Missing you with all my might,
I know that our love will endure,
Through every trial and every fright.

Tears fall freely like raindrops in the night,
Mingling with the gentle breeze's soft caress,
Aching for your presence, yearning for your sight,
In these moments of solitude, I confess.

For in the distance that separates us,
I find strength in our connection,
And with each passing day,
I know that our love will be a resurrection.

A devotion unyielding, a flame that burns bright,
An epiphany in every whispered prayer I send,
For in this distance, amidst the silent night,
I find strength in a love that will never end.

So let the night sky be our guide,
And the stars our witnesses,
As we navigate this long distance,
And emerge stronger from its mysteriousness.

Oh, how my heart aches with each breath I take,
With memories of our passion etched deep within,
Yet in this longing, a bond we cannot break,
As we dance together under starlight's gentle kin.

In the end, we will be reunited,
And our love will be brighter than any star,
For in the stillness of the night,
I know that you are never too far.

In the darkness of the night, beneath the weeping sky,
Whispers in the rain, a love that never dies.
Age difference divides us, a worry in our hearts,
Apprehensive of the future, unsure where to start.

Like ships sailing in a storm, our souls intertwined,
Chaos and uncertainty, our love defined.
But amid tears, in the pouring rain,
We found solace in each other, during pain.

The clouds above us, heavy with sorrow,
But our love, a ray of light, a hopeful tomorrow.
Memories of laughter, of joy and of love,
A bond so strong, it fits us like a glove.

The sea of life, ever-changing and vast,
But with you by my side, the storm will not last.
Soulmates in the darkness, shining bright as day,
Our love transcends all, come what may.

Each drop of rain, a symbol of our tears,
Yet each rainbow that follows, dispels all fears.
Your inner beauty, a light in the dark,
A beacon of hope, a delicate spark.

I am older, you are young,
But age is just a number, our love is strong.
Fear not the difference, worry not the time,
For our souls are entwined, in rhythm and rhyme.

I may be gray, you may be gold,
But together we make a love story untold.
Passion flows like the rain, wild and free,
In the whispers of the night, you are my melody.

In the silence of the storm, we find peace,
In the rhythm of the rain, our worries cease.
Happiness like a wave, crashing on the shore,
In your arms, I find solace, forevermore.

So let the rain fall, let the sky cry,
For in your arms, I find my paradise.
Whispers in the rain, a love that never dies,
Soulmates in the darkness, under weeping skies.

A tickle on the back of my neck,
the hairs on end,
the grip on my heart,
the butterflies in my stomach,
the knots within;
telling me,
You are the one.

A glimpse in the periphery,
a shadow in the corner,
the warmth of breath,
the scent on the wind;
telling me,
You are near.

Moist lips upon mine,
a lingering taste,
a familiarity,
an intensity in my heart,
the rhythm deafening;
telling me,
I am in love.

The world shifts,
a kaleidoscope of senses,
a sudden clarity.

The ordinary becomes extraordinary,
the mundane, magic.

A silent understanding,
a language spoken without words,
a connection forged in the depths.

The pull of gravity,
a force undeniable,
a surrender to the inevitable.

A dance of souls,
a symphony of emotions,
a tapestry woven with light.

The fear,
the vulnerability,
the exquisite joy.

A fragile bloom,
a delicate unfolding,
a revelation.

The world fades away,
only you remain,
a beacon in the darkness.

A whisper of destiny,
a promise unspoken,
a truth revealed.

The heart recognizes its home,
the soul finds its counterpart,
the journey begins.

A moment suspended in time,
an eternity captured in a glance,
a love discovered.

As night descends and stars softly gleam above,
Weaving dreams in the tapestry of our hearts,
She comforts me, a beacon in the dark,
A kindred spirit, in whom I find solace.
Her gentle touch, a soothing, soft caress,
Chasing shadows, bringing happiness.

Once, it was I who soothed her restless soul,
Now the roles have reversed, a sweet exchange.
In this dance of whispers and tender embraces,
We discover the true essence of our bond.
A silent language spoken heart to heart,
A masterpiece where souls play every part.

Kissed by moonlight, our souls intertwined,
A new beginning unfolds before our eyes.
In loving oneself, we find strength and grace,
A symphony born of passion and self-love's embrace.
No longer bound by fear or self-doubt's chain,
We rise above, where true love will remain.

Laughter echoes through the chambers of our hearts,
A melody of joyfulness that knows no bounds.
In being ourselves, we find completeness within,
An interconnectedness that transcends time and space.
Our spirits soar on wings of pure delight,
Bathed in the glow of love's ethereal light.

So let us dance in the realm of dreams and love,
In this sacred union where we are truly free.
Embracing each moment with hope in our eyes,
We write a romance that defies all expectations.
A tapestry of moments, precious and rare,
A love story beyond compare.

And as the dawn breaks, painting skies anew,
Our love remains, steadfast and ever true.
Through whispered dreams and starlit, soft embrace,
We find our haven, a tranquil, loving space.
Forever bound by an unbreakable tie,
Our love will flourish, reaching for the sky.

In dreams, she appears, a vision so bright,
A gentle touch that sets my soul alight.
Her laughter echoes, filling up the night,
We dance in fields where stars take flight.

Kisses sweet as honey, moments divine,
In her arms, true love's path I find.
A new beginning, our spirits entwined,
In self-love's embrace, pure and kind.

She makes my heart sing with joyfulness untold,
A melody of passion that cannot be controlled.
In every kiss exchanged, our connection bold,
In being ourselves, our love will never grow cold.

Like a playful symphony of dreams come alive,
We twirl through life, hand in hand we strive.
To cherish each moment and the love we derive,
In the beauty of us, forever we'll survive.

Through sun-kissed days and moonlit, starry skies,
Our love's a garden where true feeling lies.
With tender whispers and heart-to-heart replies,
Our bond strengthens, as time gently flies.

No shadows linger, no doubts take their hold,
Just pure affection, a story to be told.
In this sweet haven, our spirits grow bold,
A love like ours, more precious than gold.