A PARTING SONNET

A PARTING SONNET

Why is it one should feel a spark while one
Feels nothing of that hidden flame and light?
Yet so it is- for none can call the sun
To rise nor throw the stars upon the night.
And none can force another's heart to feel
What isn't kindled in some secret deeps;
For none can merely wake upon what's real
Responding longing where no longing sleeps.
So where there is an end it's best I turn
Away and know in time that time will smother
That foolish, random spark that it let burn.
Yet I shall hope you think well of the other...
Recall I praised your presence once and smile-
Think not unkindly of me for a while.