Winter Of Solitude

As I gazed in the mirror this fine morning I happened to see a reflection of a person, one I have always been. Though, older now, allot grayer, and maybe a little heavier but nonetheless that same person staring back has always been me. As I turn my attention back to reality a rapturous smile reappears now and again. My conscious thoughts have taken me back when that infectious smile held me captive in what I thought was the promise land.

The years have flown by since then but I am always reminded of the great passion that we shared. The moments of ecstasy of lovers sweet embrace when the world was less complex and time stood still have now rekindled the afterthought of what love can bring. Not a moment was wasted in a love so great. But, little did we know that all things would end. The joys of that one summer swiftly passed into the sorrow when Autumn leaves fell. The loneliness of that following winter where the bitter cold wind kept calling her name couldn't extinguish that burning desire of a heart in flames.

It wasn't until the following spring that the warmth of the sun brought back a resilience of purpose where life would go on. But, always in the recesses of my mind that flame of desire has kept flickering now and again. In moments of solitude through the years I always think back to the days of that summer. The moon lit nights that glimmered so bright reflecting off of still waters is a memory so dear. We'd sail into the sunset many a time always hoping the night would never end. But, as each day dawned, thought they were so few, we begin to realize time didn't stand still.

Now, in the twilight of my years where the world is so convoluted, so troubling, and complex it is amazing how much my life has changed. From athletic victories to romantic interludes the young man I was through the years have mellowed where memories become more dear. Those moments of a loves great passion so long ago it seems like it was just yesterday my memory is that fresh. So vivid in recounting those passionate times brings tears not of regret but for the joy of a life that was so blessed. I have just now realized those

days of that summer time has stood still. It is because the memories are always kept alive, in my mind.