My Solitude, I Adore You - An Ode Poem by Diana van den Berg

Here in the living depth of this tranquil night,
warm in the haven of your gentle arms,
I answer the call in your deep, true eyes.
Oh, my Solitude, accept this hymn of adoration,
for you are my strength, my friend, my confidant;
with you my thoughts run wild and free;
you share my bursting joys
and my aching sorrows.
You have taught me how
to smile,
to weep.
You forgive my angers
and my follies.
You let me love you without restraint.
I hurt you with my hate, and yet
you take me back without reproach.
You know me better than any
and I am part of you,
the perfect union.
You are the very essence of my life …
and …
how can I but love you,
knowing that
at Death’s release,
you will
share
my peace?

21 July 1983