As I slip my foot into the stirrup I glance over my saddle at the soft glow into the window. I know that she is sleeping quietly and the smell of her sweet breath lingers in the room as it did when I stood and looked over the beauty in her face just moments before.

How do you say the words goodbye when in your heart they have no meaning. My weight shifts into the saddle as I swing my leg over and settle down getting ready for what will be a life-changing ride to a place far away.

With love being so strong why is it that it cannot break through and settle on the heart of one you care for so deeply? If only I knew the secrets of the heart and could in some way open the eyes of the woman who gives my life meaning and direction.

The quietness of the fall morning breaks open as the sun settles on the beginning of this new day. I know that God knows what my future will be and yet I cannot help but wish he would give me a clue. My emotions are at the least a bit shaky, while in my mind I want to turn around and see her running to stop me that is a ghost I will see in my dreams from now on.

Is there going to be room for another in my heart? Will I be ready to venture this path again?

By Larry H Dudley
October 2006

This poem may not be reprinted without the authors permission.