To Beloved Shirley, My Wife of 64 Years
While winter’s winds refrigerate my frame
My eyes imbibe your spirit’s warming glow
So even if a swirling blizzard came
I’d feel no chill from falling flakes of snow.
The sun, far south and somewhat wan and cool
Draws back its rays in which I love to bask
But still your spirit’s like a tropic pool
Refreshment is its pleasure-giving task.
The trees stretch branches bare into the cold
Tracing webbings lacy in the sky
In Spring new leaves and blossoms will unfold
Nurtured by your spirit reaching high.
Your spirit is my flag freshly unfurled.
Old Valentine! How new you make my world!
– Irving Leos
