Lost Loves

We have many levels of love within us. The love that one person has for a lover, the love from one friend to another, or the love for one that meets both of those categories. The love of a parent for their child or to members of ones' family. You should consider yourself fortunate to have had one of these and blessed if you have had your love returned.
I have been lucky to have loved a number of women who at one time or another returned my affections. There have been brunettes, blonds, a redhead and at least one black haired, dark-eyed beauty. These women continue to reside in my heart to one degree or another and if they broke my heart or I broke theirs, our hearts have mended over time. I like to think that the tears that I shed became diamonds which decorate my heart as mementos of those loves.
Often I felt undeserving of the attention and affection which I was offered and accepted it while waiting for the laugh that I was sure was going to come. Waiting for someone to leave or say it was just a joke has a tendency to restrict a relationship and definitely caused at least one to fail. I hesitated, backed off and then regretted what I had lost. (I am happy that that person has found happiness, even if it is with another, and lives in Indianapolis now. I wish her well.)
I have also had loves that were platonic and have loved a number of people who I am proud to call my friends. Some have been there for me when I needed a friend and supported when I didn't see any positive kind of a future for myself. Some shared important events, trials or were met during journeys into foreign lands. (T.J. Thomas and his wife Karen - even after 30 years yo0u are still in my thoughts.) Thes are the ones who have in one way or another given meaning to my life and I am thankful for having known them.
To all of you, I hope you remember me fondly and I want you to know that you still reside in my memories and my heart. All my love to all of you.