As I recount old tales to my own grand-daughters
Buried memories stir of days long forgotten
Moments of my first love, moments that are rotten
Exhale deeply, ponder, reflections in waters

Where has the stolen time been for these last decades?
Lingering glances when choices kept us apart
Seething away like rust on valiant purple heart
Pain is ever so deep, the sharpest of blades

Th sighs of misfortune as time lapses away
Where true love escaped me for the moments of lust
Yet the training broken by the savoury dust

At my old stateless self, enjoy the nightly sway
But phantom to partner that will keep company
For the latter leisure of silent symphony