I've given up a lifetime
At the time I didn't see
The love that others had
My mind said not for me


The trust that lovers had
I couldn't put in place
My heart had been torn
I wouldn't mend that space


I have lived without love
That gentle touch or kiss
That was for all the others
Too strong I am to miss


When love passed by me
I looked the other way
Today I felt for the first time
God my life has gone astray


I can't go back and gather
The time that I have lost
Gently I will reach out to love
Not thinking of the cost


I close my eyes and dream
The first time this new day
Of a love that may be out there
One that I won't push away


Please come to me and show me
How I can begin
To hold your heart gently
Giving mine to love again


~Darla Andrus~
March 9 2004