Sad, slow reflect of hopeful heart, br Brings this hopeless lover closure. br As I dream of emotional start, br It is present laments that obscure. br br How is it that I yearn br For something I’ve never received? br Passionate touch earn br That brings confidence short-lived. br br If my blood has yet to run br In burning desire degree, br Am I capable of aged pun: br Loving-lust, not in thee. br br If I am to never lust, br Then must I never know love? br Shall my heart simply rust br As the skin bleeds above? br br It will be in this final hour br That my memories lie; br Tell me a story so sour br That I cannot sigh.br br Robert L.