When we are old and wrinkles fret our brow,
When time has put a damper on desire,
I shall but love you more than I do now,
Although the years will dwindle passion’s fire.

When many moons have slowed our step a bit,
And hoary heads bespeak our span of days;
When often quiet around the hearth we sit,
Upon your face with love I still shall gaze.

Beyond sweet passion’s eager flaming breath,
A deeper, gentler, stronger love will glow.
My dearest, I shall cherish you till death,
And after death my love will further grow.

My love for you encompasses the whole;
You’ll always be the essence of my soul.

Copyright © 2000 Ruth Gillis

"When We Are Old" received a Second Place Award
in the July/August 2000 issue of Poets At Work.

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