Smile

She smiled at me just yesterday,
Then left me all alone.
Her smile lingered in the air.
Her spirit had but flown.

All that's left are memories,
Of character and life,
Of deep affections that we shared,
Seasoned well with strife.

When did smiles turn into frowns.
When did laughter stop.
When did loving start to hurt.
When did caring flop.

When did loving smiles change,
To grins of getting even.
When did spite become a game.
The goal was "Even Stephen".

The games are done and now she's gone,
And yet upon reflection,
I find I smile most everyday,
Reviewing imperfections.