How does love survive
with naught but a stamp
to hold?
How can one fulfill
the duties of a lover
while seperated?
How can we hold on
when so little is left
to cling to?
You smile when you see me
the antics of a face
painted carefully.
Then when you go home
tears wash away
your mask.
How brave we must be
each visit we muster
one more smile.
I remember when your smile
fell softly into your lap
butterflies broken wing.
God how I loved you
so much so that I
let you go.
So this I pray alone
may his heart
be strong & true.
And in quiet moment
with him softly share
a lifers love…

Jeremiah Gilbert
DOC #709551