Glass Slippers (from Birdhouses of the Heart)

Our love was not easily tacked down

like musical vibrations on deaf ears
it silently simmered in our hearts

until you said Please bring in the glass slipper
send round the carriage for the ball

I didn't see it coming
didn't notice how beautiful I'd become
dressed in lace and taffeta
with all the wrinkles gone

Now as you smooth the tangles from my hair
weaving in lavender and tea roses for all to see
I realize you were always the prince
just around the corner
the happy ending not easily seen