Small, gold band pierced with silver,
you have been close to me for only a few months.
Before me, you have known no other.
After me it will likely be the same.

Your counterpart in this lies many miles away,
reunited briefly at the end and beginning of each week.
As you lie next to your love, do you contemplate the fates
that brought you and her together as I do?

I twirl you on my finger.
It has been ages since I’ve worn anything like you.

The first I bought for myself,
a cherished trinket in the halls of high school.

The second was received in unadulterated friendship,
though my love at the time felt otherwise.

Your predecessor was given in love
over longing looks and half-eaten anniversary meals.

Finally, there is you.
You were given as an undiluted symbol of love.
Blessed once, given once, rarely out of sight.
You are the link that holds me to my love so far away.