BOUND TO BE BEAUTIFUL

REFLECTIONS OF AN
​

OLDER WOMAN

​CHARLOTTE CONKLIN

Young lovers, entwined,
watch me as I walk by.
They’re thinking—or so I imagine--
that they share secrets
about which I know nothing.

But I, too, have tasted kisses
and beheld adoration in the eyes
of a new love.
I’ve sensed that sizzle
as he strums my skin
and whispers forever in my ear.
I, too, have heard my name
cried out in passion.

​And it was only yesterday--
For all they know.

CHERYL HICKS

Painting