the shallow lake

I stand beside the shallow lake
The water fading fast
And hark back to times of yore –
They seem so far apart

They were days of laughter and of joy
Replaced by solemn face
Reflected as the water fades
Distorted – fading grace

The face I see is old and gaunt
The face I knew was bright
I stand beside the shallow lake
Unclear in waning light

My hand it reaches up to feel
The lines I once knew not
The wrinkles and the double chin
How quickly time forgot

How quickly time will pass for worse
Youth gone for good it seems
But then a tap on shoulder felt
My eyes – they turn and gleam

Suddenly a girl I thought
Departed lifetime’s call
Like a rose – a bud that blooms
From flower it may fall

I see my hand – as calm as if
With strength displacing fear
Grasping her waist and then with rose
A smile doth appear

It happens that the trickling stream
Illuminates the face
That girl – the sweetest bud I’ve known
Replenishes the lake.