My "Once upon a time.."
began long ago
where carefree
was as close
as it would ever be
and falling in love
was sometimes
a daily event.

Where the girls
would usually return
a flirtatious smile
with twinkling eyes
that turned my cherry heart
into warm, quivering Jello.

Where the shy
tongue-tied approach
was considered by some,
a sign of loving tenderness
rather than a weak spirit.

Where the ladies
could be pals,
drinking buddies,
confidants or lovers.
Or even a loving friend
where a gentle embrace
was sometimes
more important
than going all the way.

Where things lost
tried to leave me empty
yet still
what always remained
was a burning want
deep inside
that fired
a constant search
for everlasting love.

My "Once upon a time..."
began long ago
where friendships stretched further
than the dollars I made
and my old friend,
loneliness
helped me
to find you.