Bridges Not Walls

(An old poem out for an airing)

As twilight cast a shadow on his face,

a candle flame brought softness to his eyes.

I saw once more the man that I first knew

and raised my glass to toast the future highs.

I smiled as I remembered our first kiss,

his loving arms that wrapped me in his spell.

The wish that time that night would just stand still

as sturdy walls built round me rocked and fell.

I found the strength I needed in his love,

I felt the freedom surge throughout my brain,

as I recalled the wonder that we shared

as he released me from my inner pain.

Yet after all these years what have I done?

Rebuilt those bloody walls which I thought gone.

Reviews

[Onlyme]

Wow, Chris, this is excellent and so true. We love someone and break down all the walls. And over time we slowly build them up again. Subtly but true. As contentment breeds stagnation and boredom. And in these, we dwell and build up resentment and not speaking to each other properly.

[Chris Shaw]

Many thanks Dawn. It can easily be done. Relationships have to be worked at otherwise complacency sets in.

Chris

[Coyote Poetry]

I understand this poem. I wish I could go back in time. held silence instead of spilling un-needed words.
Yet after all these years what have I done?
Rebuilt those bloody walls which I thought gone."
I liked the above lines dear Chris. Thank you for sharing your amazing words and thoughts.
Coyote

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you dear Coyote for your understanding.

Chris

[Coyote Poetry]

I made my share of mistakes and you are welcome dear Chris.

[Relic]

We are what we are I guess. We tend to think things will improve and get even better over time. But the real, and unchangeable, pops up again.

"It doesn't work out if you don't work at it."
~Paul McCartney.

[Chris Shaw]

I think Paul's quote is pretty sound. You have to put the effort in before complacency takes hold. Thank you so much for your visit.

Chris

[toritto]

Nicely done Chris. We all go through these spells; relationships need to be nurtured. Hard times can bring a couple closer together or drive them apart. I was married 40 years to my high school sweetheart until widowed in 2004. During our life together we had four children - and buried two. In the end it made us stronger. Regards from Florida

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you torrito for your visit and lovely response. Also want to extend a warm welcome to my page. Yes, have to agree, relationships need to be worked at for them to last. Mine has reached a grand 35years.

Chris

[jacob erin-cilberto]

i have had relationships that have torn down the walls...but for some reason, they seem to rebuild themselves and boom...right back at square one...mistrusting love.
And some really good people suffered because of it.

[Chris Shaw]

I think there are many wall builders out there. They build them for many reasons. I certainly didn't start out with any walls, there weren't even any foundation stones laid. They came later, after disappointments and let downs. Thank you Jacob.

[Papaya]

The title itself is meaningful beyond measure. The poem is real with very real feelings. I think some people will always put up walls and the breaking down is part of what makes a relationship stronger. Depends on the wall though. It can completely shut out. I am sending you a hammer for Christmas. xx and a big wall melting hug.

[Chris Shaw]

An old poem Ana. No need for hammers at the moment, but it's always useful to have a hammer around. Very useful tool :) A hug is always appreciated. Thank you so much.

Chris

[Dave]

This is so meaningful in so many ways. The barriers we erect for ourselves that in a myriad of ways we hope someone will tear down and we are delighted when they do. Being foolish, we can't be content and despite love and caring we rebuild them and lose all that we once had.

Take care - Dave

[Chris Shaw]

Thanks Dave I think many of us build walls to prevent us from getting hurt. Your review most appreciated.

Chris

[Ayvid N]

Such a delight to read this poem Chris. A very thinking write on love and relationships. Our thoughts and resolutions are so momentous sometimes and our inclination to retreat into our shells so powerful, no matter how strongly someone reaches out to us. Very relatable for me.

[Chris Shaw]

Hello DIVYA.Thanks for your interesting and thoughtful response.

Chris

[Ayvid N]

You’re so welcome Chris 🌸

[goldenscar__]

You do love that man, don't you?

[Chris Shaw]

Don't you fret now, it's a very old poem:)

[goldenscar__]

That's why I love poetry, it saves feelings; pictures don't. Nice poem. hugs

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you.Pleased you liked it :))