From Crush to Crushed (Part I): Fooled

By Bud Koenemund

You fooled me into believing I could
Be worthy of love; a soul misled to
Think – despite previous defeats – this would
Work; that affection was given one who
Might finally requite the warmth received;
Mirroring my effort and devotion.
But, once more, this heart’s desire deceived
A mind vulnerable; lacking notions
Of treason; blind to prevarication.
Though intellect provided ample warning,
Enchantment deafened sense, and illusion
Grew quickly, obscuring misgivings.
   Reality killed my season of joy,
   And lies left behind a spirit destroyed.

Believe in Love Again

By Bud Koenemund

(Written: December 2020)

I will help you believe in love again;
Make thee feel adored and celebrated;
Safe enough to surrender; free of pain;
Sans sorrow; through my affection sated.
I’ll gather the pieces from your broken
Heart; combining them with such remaining
Parts of mine; building a fire which mends
Both – forged as one by passion unrestrained.
My soul’s quest shall be to make you smile;
Holding thy hand while healing the spirit.
Let not these flowery words beguile
Your eyes – those orbs I can never forget –
   But, trust in my actions, for they will prove
   This respect and devotion ‘ever true.

Words and Actions

By Bud Koenemund

For "Her."

"If thou dost love, pronounce it faithfully:

Or if thou think'st I am too quickly won,

I'll frown and be perverse and say thee nay."

– William Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet (2.2)

Why should I believe thy protestations
Of desire, when you let me languish –
Wandering the wasteland of rejection;
Surrounded by solitude and anguish?
Shall I take thee at thy word, while you speak
Of your heart and soul, as my own lie dead?
How can I once more leave defenses weak,
When by thee to misery I am wed?
May I suppose this Spring-like affection
Real, or will fair weather fade under cloud?
My breast remains guarded 'gainst deception,
Though I yearn for passion proclaimed aloud.
   Someday I'll transcend this pain, and admit
   Love found in actions, not promises writ.