Box of love

I’m returning the box
that holds the words
the love of many years
the days of tears cried
when we were side by side
day and night

many years of special days
terms of endearment
I no longer deserve
you gave so freely
when passion stirred strong
and our longing knew no equal

back into your hands
stored for safe keeping
for future use
when you find another
a lover worthy of the care
or your heart

and you feel the strength
to start again, until then
read the letters and cards,
those moments are passed
but not lost, the feelings
were real, warmed us,
existed if only as a candles flame
briefly but bright