Ankle Bracelets

When I was a teen, an ankle chain
Was given by one ready
To show the world that as a couple,
They were “going steady.”

It often came in gold, with hearts
On which one could engrave
The sweethearts’ names, a token meant
To cherish and to save.

I never had one then but now
My ankle always sports
A bracelet (never made of gold);
I purchase varied sorts.

A few are made of beads and one
Boasts tiny chiming bells.
I buy them for myself
When opportunity compels.

The only signal they give off,
Unlike my teenage years,
Is that the wearer (me!) enjoys
The way each one appears.