If

If I could be there at home tonight, I'd spend quality time with my twins. I'd braid Jenny's hair and play games-- his choice--with Jimmy. I'd rub my husband Bobby's tired feet, gaze into his wonderful eyes, and say, "How'd things go at work today?" Then I'd listen--really listen. If I could be there, I'd prepare a feast of their favorites. Dinnertime would be a joyous, chatty experience. Then I would gratefully help with homework, play with our cat Snuggle, and take a warm bath. If I could be there, I would look forward to dropping the kids off at school tomorrow and another day of same ole- same ole at work. How glorious that would be! If I could be there, my loved ones wouldn't have to come here to see me in this hospital bed, temporarily (my doctors say) unable to talk, walk, or even write notes to them. If I am ever there again, I will be better than my old self, glowing with an enhanced love and appreciation for-- everything. posted March 30, 2016 entered in Brian Strand's Late Summer Standard Contest on August 8, 2017 August 19, 2018, entered in Viv Wigley's Pick a Topic Contest Placed 3rd October 8, 2018, entered in Silent One's "Response to 'If'" contest Placed 2nd February 5, 2019, entered in Cecelia Hopkins-Drewer's Repetition Contest Date: October 16, 2020 Contest: Old Poem, Free Verse (003) Sponsor: Poet Destroyer A