It took every ounce of self control
not
to kiss you...

not to take you in my arms

inhaling deep
the very scent of floral meadows
from your hair

not to hold your hands
with fingers trembling

nor to speak the words openly...

that I have
so often penned
in secret pained poetic silence

but for one moment of weakness
I could have made known
my heart...

my feelings

but no

nor would I
risk all we are ... all we have

for one moment
of
madness.