A Son's Visit

On her birthday 
he stopped by for a visit. 
Walking alone, 
hands deep in his pockets, 
he knew where to find her 
but took his time 
among the grass and stones 

Standing tall and silent, 
he spoke with her 
in unspoken thoughts, 
as the sun laid its warmth 
over his shoulders 
and the breeze gently played 
in the tree nearby 
as if staying just far enough away 
to give them their privacy. 

He shared memories and dreams with her - 
and a burden or two, 
though he didn't realize it at the time, 
and didn't speak of them out loud - 
and she spoke to him 
as only she could. 

And all was well with her. 

Then, with a deep breath 
and a glance over his surroundings, 
he turned and walked away. 
The sounds of the world around him 
faded back into his consciousness 
and he picked up the pace, 
pulling his keys from his pocket
as somewhere, bells chimed. 

For now, 
all was well with him too.


Janet Reid
july 2008




~*~






 
Awarded by Poetic Constellations