Masterpiece

Masterpiece
Quizmo LaGrande

Exquisite in my memory,
The masterpiece of me.
A wearing of the stages,
Through ages stripped and free.

Undaunted wish, I hold on high,
Undying long for truth.
Though the paint be old and faded,
The soul still fraught with youth.

Yet, through the anguish, bitter years,
Embrace these weathered hands
You, closest to my heart and breath,
Though late you choose to stand.

A simple kiss, not lust, nor greed
Bestowed upon my lips.
A kiss, just one for time and grace
Brought light for brush to grip.

Behold, this peeling, cracking work,
Fine glow illuminating;
Stored fast within my memory,
Masterpiece, long last, elating!

~***~