RELATIONSHIP Poem: LONG AGO AND FAR AWAY, by Tim O’Connell

In the pages of my childhood,
Hiawatha stalked his prey
On the shores of Gitche Gumee
Long ago and far away.

In the pages of your childhood,
Sleeping Beauty kissed her prince.
You were charming when I met you.
You’ve been my princess ever since.

Take my hand and walk beside me.
Take my heart and make it whole.
Fill my life with deeper meaning.
Take my body. Take my soul.

Be my wife and have my babies.
I’ll be your husband and keep you safe.
And we will build a loving family,
And from our love we will draw strength.

And when the storms sweep across the prairies
Or when the lightning’s striking near,
I’ll hold you close and say I love you
And do my best to calm your fears.

And we’ll find joy in simple pleasures,
And some day when we’re old and gray,
We will share a million memories
Of long ago and far away.