The hidden harbor of your heart –
I sought it in the morning-days,
When nothing seemed beyond my strength
Or reach, or even love’s desire –
    Across the barren reach, wherein dwells hope.

I struck out to the lonely shore,
And saw the morning-sunrise wishing glow,
My pace unflagging, coming to the steps
That sat along the hidden harborside –
    I felt your presence near, and drew my breath –

You came to where I was, and instantly
I knew I was not welcome in this place –
The hidden harbor you reserved for one
And only one, and one who was not me –
    And set me out upon the journey back

I know that every set of steps is choice,
I know that every choice means danger, risk —
But wow, how far the same trip seemed when I
Was treading back to where my hope was born
    That died upon the secret banks of you

The hidden harbor of a heart –
We seek it in the everyday,
We wish it in our waking and our sleep,
And often find it locked behind a gate,
    That we will never own the key to.