Pass

I loved you, but I could not wait forever.

I made my choice, but you would not make yours.

In some delays, a year’s as good as never,

As what is lost no change of heart restores.

I love you still, but cannot think of you

Without the bitter longing of regret.

This, too, will pass, I know, and time renew

The innocence one needs to love, and yet . . .

You were my once, that never comes again,

A happiness untouched by any past.

Whatever love comes next comes with the stain

Of knowing well this love might well not last.

Goodbye, my love! I hope someday you’ll be

Ripe for the love you could have had from me.