the last time

I didn't know
the last time
was the last time
I would've did things differently

I would've hugged more
loved more
been more kind
I would've been more patient
more understanding
I wouldn't mind
I would've let go the small things
enjoyed the important things
and just let it go
I would've paid more attention
noticed any preference
let love show

but the last time
was the last time
and I still see you there
if I could wind back the clock
backwards walk
everything I'd share

but the last time
was the last time
and I didn't know
its so cruel
we're all such fools
to waste a minute
when we have love
to lose love
is to lose part of your soul
so you'll never be whole

because when the last time
is the last time
you want to pray
for another day
to be better, kinder
one more time

By Catherine Elder

Don't call it love

Don't call it love
unless you miss them
always want to kiss them
feel their heart beat
and their cold feet
when you go to sleep

when you can't go a day
thinking of all the things you want to say
holding their hand
is a way to understand
you're connected
more than just lovers

so many people say love
like its pulling on a glove
like an after dinner mint they get for free
and they slip it off to discard
when it all gets too hard
because they think it should be easy

Don't call it love
unless you stop breathing
your chest heaving
when you see them across the room
and know they're yours
like landing on shores
after being adrift at sea
knowing you can be
safe on solid ground
with the best friend you found
the one you'd die for
the one you're more for

(c)2018 By Catherine Elder