a flightless bird
bound to a ring,
yearning, burning
no voice to sing
longing to flee
the empty years,
to be set free
from hidden tears
a ring that binds
to unkind ways,
a clock that chimes
to endless days
never forgetting
the aching loss,
always regretting
bearing a cross
for the one man
whose single kiss
and touch of hand
was heavenly bliss