The Paper Sailboat

Regret has many meanings, and this time I feel it strong 

For "love" can be the right word, and yet so very wrong. 

I've kept all boats tethered, left none to sail away 

Kept all the little memories, for when the world turns gray. 

I'd have loved to know you better, but we never got the time

So when I walk by you I take a snapshot of your smile in my mind.

I thought I saw a spark, a glimmer in your eye

But it could have been a false light that led my thoughts awry.

The time we spent was short; all chance has passed me by

I've written you this modern sonnet; I'm awaiting no reply. 

So when I tell you, when you leave, I bear my dignity. 

If you didn't know, I pity you, and if you did, I pity me. 

This dramatic declaration reflects things that did impede

Because "love" is the shortest poem ever written, and the one that takes the longest to read.