ode to a past lover

i’ve suddenly thought of you after six years.

its been a long time

of pain-free existence.

a breathe of fresh air.

freedom cherished and lived.

but often i wondered

if the walls built and broken

by the lies, hurts and expectations

has corrupted that small island

of hope,

that part of me that

believes that true, abiding love exists.

im not a hopeless romantic now.

nor am i a cynic.

ive now realised that

cruel men may give you wounds and heartbreak,

but they can never conquer a true tower of strength.

and for that, i thank you.