The Vigil (Poetry)

I have spent entire nights waiting
in my perfect dream pavillion
plucking at the pastel moonflowers
that entwine its marble pillars
and I weave them in a garland
to place sweet upon your pillow
their strong waves of perfume rolling
like a welcome through the dark.

Hope is hanging on and praying
that perchance our dreams cross over
and one night will find you riding
down the road to be my lover
then you’ll see me in a window
by the light of seven candles
eyes grown soft by years of longing
plaiting ribbons in my hair.

Blood-red wine will flow in fountains
and the table’s laid for feasting
with exotic fruit and sweetmeats
piled in dishes for our pleasure
while out on the verandah
the wind’s soft orchestra is playing
a symphony so tender
each breath becomes a sigh ...

Wild imagination clothes me
in a gown of star-spun satin
on my feet snow-velvet slippers
set with ice-blue crystal buckles
silver chains and ring’s pure sterling
deck my wrists, my neck and fingers
smooth and chill they curb my passion
so preserve the patient bride.

Just how long the dream will hold me
keep the fantasy from fading
and reality reclaiming
countless isolated hours
there’s no telling ... but bright visions
generate belief ongoing
while there’s a chance — I wait not knowing
if my love will ever come.