Love Lingers (Where It Will) Poem by Arnie Hicks

simplistic to the point of incomprehensible,
love lingers on the lips and in the heart -
seemingly for but the briefest of moments,
while ever cavorting on the brink of eternity.
consuming everything within its reach,
yet holding nothing captive,
unfettered and relentless, it comes and goes,
like the wayward thoughts of a derelict poet;
staying where it wishes or finds warm welcome,
departing when it must;
leaving much more than it ever takes,
never demanding of reciprocity.
its seed lies ever out there,
neither friend nor enemy to time;
awaiting the inexorable winds of change -
finding purchase where it will...
but, oh, how love blossoms best
when nurtured in the garden of a kind and tender heart.