Sunset Sails

Like drizzled honey
the sun through the treetops
paints the tall conifers
that embrace our meadow
in golden warmth

in that moment
my thoughts drift to you
and the tall ships in Beaufort Harbor

their massive sails aglow
painted in sunset shadows
their masts and riggings
set in fired relief

you had commented how the patterns
reminded you
of abstract charcoal sketches
the artist in you
always interpreting your world

this day
sunshine makes radiant your gentle face
your green eyes sparkle

I reflect back once more
to seeing you squinting in those rays
of that past North Carolina evening

your smile
had shone brighter than the sun

I remember staring
captivated
watching your eyes dance
among the docks and ships
in that beautiful little harbor
that unfolded like a still life before us

mesmerized
I had watched your lips
sculpting your words
in gentle excitement

you’d said yes
accepting the engagement ring
I offered you
there by the tall ships

I had wished that moment
would last forever
knowing that it would not
could not

it was a singular precious moment
anchored forever in time

here now
in this anniversary evening
my thoughts amble sweetly
back through time

I find a joyful peace
lying here with you
in the cuddled light
of this sunset-drenched meadow

my heart adrift
long ago
in the deep harbors
of my memories

*
rob kistner © 1/17/25

Poetry at: dVerse