that dark realization
isn’t an epiphany that comes
during any certain,
pinpointed moment.
it comes slowly,
after carefully observing
that tired heart
from day to day to day
and watching as the features
lose their gracious luster.
it is seeing the smile 
without it’s perfect charm,
the eyes dulled of color,
and warmth drained from that body
you once deeply cherished.
it is with deep sorrow
to be burdened by these
things being taken from you-
not by force and...