Carolyn Devonshire, US

 

 

Free Verse   Evolution of a Life Shared   love born ‘neath star sequins a hand extended and life’s slow dance begins confidential whispers exchanged vows professed on a sun-kissed beach eternity held in promises leaping dolphins revel in joy and they return when azure skies beckon the first-born’s toes to touch the ocean    when the family erects sandcastles while waves lap the shore       when the birds have left the nest as autumn fog covers the sea          when aging lovers see sunset casting a pink aura on lazy clouds               when the final glimmer of light surrenders to celestial curtains               until the surviving spouse emits a sigh in the solitude of darkness     Winter's Rose   white frost streaks her hair smooth ice-sculpture skin of youth      stroked by cracks           wrinkles that have weathered life                skin once firmly packed sags in the mirror a figure she doesn’t recognize       but she laughs           budding spring beauty                  summer rose that danced through seemingly timeless evenings restless rebellion came with fall      withering, yearning but winter, sweet winter fills her heart with warm memories      resignation, acceptance            life well-lived                 a spirit that will never die winter’s rose smiles      prepares for eternal life