Never and Always by David Ambrose

Accompanying sketchbook images by the writer.

By DAVID AMBROSE May 11, 2026

It was never the golden fleece that uncoiled from atop your head

It was never the eyes that glistened from their soft socket bed

It was never curl of your nose that could barely cast a shadow upon a pout

It was never the lips that denied me charge by distance and doubt

It was never the mole on your chin that punctuated your face’s perfection

It was never the thrust of your wrinkled forehead that announced considered reflection

It was always your inner strength and outward courage

It was always a raised step that heralded your every journey

It was always that back of a camel like a traveler’s place of survey

It was always the light of wonder banishing the shadow of defeat

It was always understanding that morning offered not an exit, but a pathway to a life’s voyage not yet complete WM