Once again that annual trigger fires

And the date hangs leaden in my chest

A raft of unwanted memories it inspires

Memories that cannot be laid to rest

Song's lyrics change their meanings

Photographs tell different tales

Colours, textures, all new feelings

Concentrated effort fails

The hole has opened once again

Exposing what the heart regrets

A repetition of that painful refrain

The collecting of destiny's debts

Some say pain is eased with time

And for some that may be true

But when you've loved and lost perfection

It's always there with you

As years before, I'll pass this date

In memories dabbed with tears

Recalling my one and only mate

For almost sixty years