I didn't understand why
you returned
the Valentines I gave you.
It was in our place
where the trees
flicker the sun
and give a scent
of happiness and health.
You were so pleased
to return them
you grinned like
our favorite frog.
I was a bit hurt
when you handed
them to me.
For hours were
spent finding
just the right card.
Each was filled
with my love
for you.
Each line I wrote was
in our love code.
Each was sealed
with an understood kiss and
I even waited for just
the right day to mail them.
They were me rolled
flat and square
with my love whispers
to you now engraved.
And as time
has passed the love cards
have earned compound interest.
They were modestly
understated when sent
but today they read
like a classic love story.
Each day,
each month,
each year
the cards have been
a record of
my love for you.
You saved them
and cared for them
and I see the
tear drop stains
and fingered edges.
They were love cards
obviously loved.
So how could you
return them to me?
And when I asked why
all you would say was:
"I give to you that which I love the most."
I now understand and
when I have basked
for a time
in our shared warmth
I shall return
them to you.
And each time
they pass this way
I will add the love
that has grown
since I saw them last.