On that day I found a tree to sit beneath,

the grass in sloping folds of summer

would not leave me

'til I made a choice.

Closing my eyes and opening my mind

was like a photograph of destiny

as yet designed.

 

      For old times' sake looking back

      at how time had ploughed that chosen track

      with its ruts well trodden

      I have passed by a lake of similar souls

feeling the wrench and see again

that wave of goodbye

the parting of sex

a fruitless orgasm for old times' sake

before the long journey.

 

      And now that other hand I hold

      as mine is held

      is the mark we bear

      as hearts beat still  against

      the tides of life.