He bought me a big red balloon

And 'round my wrist it was tied.

He said that it was his heart

All filled with love inside.

I kissed him and told him thanks;

The thought I'd forever store.

Then I slipped it off my hand

And we watched it soar and soar.

We like to look back and dream

Of our symbol of love out there,

Drifting along on a breeze,

Spreading this love we share.

You cannot confine your love

Or keep it locked up in a box.

If you want to know if it's true,

Set it free; remove all the locks.

For love cannot grow in a vacuum.

Like all living things, it must breathe.

When you try to possess your lover,

He will wither and die, or just leave.

If your love is healthy and pure

Don't restrain the being that holds it;

For the freedom you give your love

Is the nourishment that molds it.

(arts4peace/Memorial Day 2007)