Farewell, My Love

As your lips part
forming words of goodbye
I hold my breath.
Counting each second
that passes as a moment
lost in time.
I know it was inevitable
that the passing would come
and you would leave me here alone.
But I prayed each day
hoping you would find
no reason to bid me farewell.

I remember the tender touch
of your arms holding me,
giving me the strength
to face another day.
The feel of your breath
as you whispered
words of love.
But I knew they were false,
that you would retract them
when you found the need to leave.

Alas, that time is near
I see the restlessness in your heart
I feel it in each word you utter
and in everything you do.
Though your bags are still empty
you have already
left me in your mind.
Seeing you walk on tender foot
Fear of the coming day
when you will see
the last of me.

As the horizon beckons you
to take flight in its comfort
I tend the garden of tomorrows
in the absence of you.
Though you look upon my face
see my strength,
It is but a ruse that I have mastered.
Inside, deep inside,
I feel the slivers of a broken heart
cutting the breath,
the very essence
of my being.

Oh tender heart,
Forsaken heart,
You have judged me unwisely.
My soul is clutching
to the memories that still
cling inside of me.
Retracing each moment
trying to find the one
that will put this lie to rights.

Did I not love you deep enough
were not my words,
my actions,
a testament to the very love
you are denying me now.
Such thoughts seem wasted
as I sit... and watch... and wait.

Be gone, my love,
I see the horizon is calling you.
Beckoning you with its caress.
Tearing at your heart
just as surely as you
are tearing at mine.
If your journey takes you
on the path of memories,
think of me with kindness
as that is how I shall think of you.