For what is love if not some plundered lust,
That smoldering peace that follows courtship’s war;
When aphrodisia is but razed to dust
What then remains of sighs and sweet allure?
So dawns that armistice that heaven blessed—
Two sparring hearts now in alliance pledged;
‘Neath eyes of god, fidelity confessed;
Into that love shared cup, their passion gently wedged.
But true love thrives, and from lust’s ashes rise,
And like the phoenix soars on wings of flame,
Lifting love’s burden to empyreal skies,
And from this vantage there—for life to reign.
No greater glory ever crowned defeat;
Than love succeeding lust’s surrender sweet.

© Loubert S Suddaby. All Rights Reserved.