I CAN'T SAY GOODBYE

You were there when I fell
and scraped my soul.
You picked me up and kissed away
the hurt. You did what I asked
of you, and did it well. Like a daddy
bird you kicked me from the nest
to fly alone.
God knows I've tried.
Don't fret -it isn't your fault
I ache where hands can't touch
or kisses mend.
I thought you meant you were in love
with me when you said, "You loved me."
Your declaration was reserved for
someone else.
Oh, how I misunderstood your endearing
kindness. I know it's proper and a must
but how can my head say good-by
when my heart refuses.

Carrilee Colins-Burke
Sarasota, Fla