LOVE HURTS

This poem is dedicated to a courageous, inspiring and very special young lady, whom I am privileged to call friend. She has recently undergone a deep personal loss. I hope this verse gives her some solace, or - at least - serve as a catharsis. My admiration for her is boundless.

Love hurts

When it blooms and is then snatched away

When once radiant skies turn dismal and grey

When a bountiful summer, the colours of fall

Fade and decay into grim winter's fall

When the laughter of children; the joys and the rush

Are quickly extinguished to an incredulous hush

When the good times; and there were too many to count

Fade into memories; and fond dreams dismount

When reality dawns; when false hopes grow dim

When you force a smile; and are strong for him

When the speeches are made; the hosannas sung

And you wonder again why the good die young

The emptiness builds; you cry for a while

Then pick yourself up and put on a smile

You so want to grieve; your heart feels like stone

But you haven't the luxury; you're not alone

This is the time they need you the most

Start with the small things; let daily life coast

Remember the fun times, the trips and the fairs

Keep him in their love, their hearts and their prayers

Time really does heal, be it ever so slow

The sadness fades; what remains is the glow

And he never leaves you; he remains inside

Whenever you need him, he's there at your side

There's a place for you; up in heaven above

And when your time comes, you'll live in his love