To Marriage, With Love:

My heart is sealed behind the old wall.
I can only see one impenetrable locked door.
No key exists that I am aware of.
However, approachers still makes me nervous,
so I guard the door, afraid that it might be defiled.

She is persistent, but I stay cool.
I am much stronger, or so I think.
"I have no interest in your door, only talk".
I keep having to set my sword down to help her with stuff.
In fact, where on earth did I put that thing last?

Her eyes cut through me and her smile is magic.
Her movements distract me long after she has gone.
I remember everything she said.
Her charm makes me forget my priorities.
I feel ashamed at my irresponsibility.

She has breached my super tough exterior.
I am at a loss and I don't know what to say.
Her kiss pains my heart and her touch brings me to my knees.
I don't understand the warfare of love,
so I drop my shield and give in without really caring.

She swings the key on her finger, but remains polite.
I desire for her love to open the door,
but in fear I am hesitant and coy.
She decides to overlook it and remains regardless.
I don't even realize that the door is already unlocked.

It's so different to open up and see.
This silly suit of armor has become heavy and useless.
I pour my love out to her unconstrained now.
She never believed that we would grow so far.
The sun rises and falls on our embrace.

God is the testimony to the oneness of our flesh.
Conflict bounces off the shield of our love.
The mountains echo our heart's songs of joy.
I lift her above all things to the Lord.
I don't hold back the freedom to express myself.

The old wall consistently blooms every season now.
The door has become a pearl that cannot be closed.
The path leading to her is pure transparent gold.
She has always shown a beauty that cannot be seen.
Now, believe it or not, so shall I.

RON HALE
AUGUST 28, 1993