Queen! Cyprian!

You know the place then

Leave Crete and come to us waiting

Where the grove is pleasantest, by precincts

Sacred to you: incense smokes on the altar,

Cold streams murmur through the apple branches,

A young rose thicket shades the ground

Quivering leaves pour down deep sleep

In meadows where horses have grown sleek

Among spring flowers, dill scent the air

Queen! Cyprian!

Fill our golden cups with love

Stirred into clear nectar ~~~

Love is Like Tea - It Needs to Steep Awhile

Dear Sappho,

This is not a question but a letter of celebration. Last year after my wife and domestic partner of 20 some years died, I was blank and heart broken. I literally did not know what to do with myself.  I pursued healing through support groups where I eventually met my new love. She is almost 20 years younger. Never could I have imagined that such love and passion could be resurrected out of such despair. I wasn’t expecting it but we fell in love and now live together.

I am amazed mostly about how every day, each relationship milestone becomes a new layer revealing new meanings of love. Not all good or perfect, but satisfying, and quickly evolving to deeper layers. Things I never thought about or simply took for granted in my old relationship are like revelations. It makes me feel both young again and a little insecure. Which makes me vulnerable, which makes my girlfriend love me more. Or so she says. Mainly I want to let your middle aged readers know that young love blooms when you least expect it. 

Sex Is Not Enough

Dear Sappho,

I am a single lesbian looking for true love. I live in Northern California and have no problem hooking up with other lesbians. There is a vibrant community here and also lots of online dating opportunities. The problem is finding a woman that makes my heart sing and my spirit soar.  I assumed that with so many choices I would have several heartthrobs - but so far my dates have been lukewarm without any life changers. I want deep fulfilling lasting passion and love. Where can I find it, if not here? 
Sex is not enough.