Ode to My Older Love

I stand alone, gazing upon the stillness that was once the example of vitality. You, my beloved, who danced through life with the elegance of autumn leaves caught in a gentle breeze, now lie in death, the melodies of your laughter silenced

We were an unlikely pair, separated by some 22 years, but you gave me one magical year. To the world, our love was a puzzle, pieces from different sets that should not fit, yet in your embrace, I found pleasures deeper than I’d ever known. When we made love, I was transported to a better place and one I longed to return to often.  
 
You taught me love, not the fleeting kind that fades at dawn, but the love that is patient and kind, a love that endures. In your touch, I learned tenderness; in your smile, joy; in your presence, peace.  
 
In every wrinkle that graced your face, there was a memory of a life so rich that it overflowed and filled my emptiness. Your eyes were sparkling pools of wisdom seeing beyond the facade of age and into the heart of what it meant to truly live.  
 
Though the mortality tables foretold this end, my heart refused to listen. For in every heartbeat, I hoped we could defy time, that you, though older, might outlive me.  
 
But death comes for us all. It just came for you sooner than I’d hoped. Still, I am grateful. Grateful for the year that was ours, for the love that you gave so freely, for the life that you shared so generously. Your body was beautiful in life. My eyes come to rest on your breasts remembering. I place a kiss on your cold lips remembering the pleasures they gave. Yes, even in death you entice. Even in death, your body influences mind and I wish for one more time with you.  
 
I knew you’d loved many in your time but was thankful to be counted as your last love of this life. Remembering our times together, I think maybe I was your best love in this life. You will forever be my timeless love, my guiding star. And though you now journey beyond my reach, the love you ignited within me will burn eternal.