Mother, I Have Learned

Mabel's mother taught her
to wait until the shine
in his eyes rivaled
polished diamonds.

She told her to wait
because people change,
but you will not.

Tell him "I don't love
the way you smile:
crooked, full of adoration."

Wait until he thinks
this is unbreakable,
then show him how wrong
he is.

When he says "This is
not heartbreak.
You need a heart
in order for it to break."

Remind him that
you were perfect
for him once
and that people
change, but you do not.