I recall
The last perfect picture
Which sits all alone
On my dresser

Taken back when
Our experience
Was something enjoyed
Not endured,

As time spent now
Seems encumbered
By these heavier days
Still before us

Where each memory
Wanes ever slowly
Like their innocence lost
While we age

And sickness reigns
Over thoughts
Soon tainted again
Feeling symptoms,

Letting sadness
Stifle such purity
Since that suffering
Mocks all belief –

One true moment
Framed long ago
In Florida’s sun
Seeing castles,

Forgetting how fake
An appearance
Could hardly wreck
What was real,

This genuine hope
Finally found
Between two old souls
Growing jaded

But kids at heart
Needing happiness
Just one last chance
Will provide.

Perhaps promises
Never can break
If intention stays
Despite fading,

Deliberately sworn
Over snapshots
Always waiting again
For your tears.

• J. Pigno