In sunshine bathed was I, beloved of night,

yet felt no warmth, enwrapped in solitude.

You, too, intrinsic darkness had to fight

with innate light of peerless fortitude.

No warmth perceived I, in my lonely state,

until you came, in friendship took my hand.

Your laughter and your smile, they permeate

my memories; your soul became a brand

that in my heart Hope’s searing mark engraved.

My darkened soul, your eye, sharp as a knife

at once perceived, and judged to be depraved –

my love for you demanded I love life.

Now you and I are parted; yet Hope’s presence

still lends this star-bright night its luminescence.