A Secret Kiss

Someone once asked me how old I was,

having seen my advanced age turning to gray at my temples

and in the locks along my forehead.

I answered, "One hour. For verely, I count the time I have lived for nothing"

He replied, "What do you mean? Explain.

Here is indeed the most moving of things"

I said : "One day, by surprise, I stole a kiss, a secret kiss, 

from her who has my heart. 

However many days may number, I shall count only that brief moment, 

for it was truly my entire life"

Ibn Hazm

Andalusian Writer (994-1064)

Tawq al-Hamama (The Dove's Neck Ring)