First Love

Eons ago, as I played near our house, Up strode bearded fellow, one Oubaas Strauss. I've come for your Ouma, gently he smiled; 'Twas a wonderful wedding, through the eyes of a child! Ten years later, my folks firmly decreed: A week with grandparents, is just what you need! Petulant, grumbling, the train I did board; Let the time fly, I beseech you, dear Lord! Oupa Strauss' grandchild at destination I met; The lovely Maria....sweetest name yet! Home we were driven by a hopeful young swain, Who soon became hist'ry...not seen there again! With affection, attention me bountif'ly showered. (Just for the record, no-one was deflowered!) She's three years my senior, but naught did it matter, As we lovingly laughed, and did gleefully chatter! Alas! prayer heard that time must go flying, Have to depart, of that no denying! So precious that final, long, loving embrace, As I entered the coach, tears streamed down my face! Last image of her on that cold winter's night: Dabbing her eyes in the dim platform light. As train picked up speed, intense grew my pain, For I'd realised for certain, we'd ne'er meet again! Thought of her often, as life took its course; A twenty-year marriage? you guessed it..divorce! Romances? a few...sadly none did endure, But hope springs eternal...that is for sure! My autumn is here...nights are quite cold, Some put it bluntly: you're just getting old! Warm mem'ries, nostalgia, with sorrow between; Nothing more poignant than first love at fifteen!