A Shadow Walks Beside Me

A shadow walks
beside me
in the sun—
faithful companion,
mimicking my every move. 

Through the
decades of my life,
I scarcely noticed
little changes
in his form. 

He seems just  
a bit shorter now
and stooped slightly
at the waist—moving
slower than before. 

Now I find he is
also not so near
and one hand mimicks
the shake of my own hand. 
Where does that come from?

Hardly see him anymore,
as I sit here in my room. 
But friends and dear ones
gather round. 
I seldom feel alone. 

I tug now at my shadow,
for he shuffles more than walks,
as I spend more time outside,
walking in the sun, finding
purpose in my days. 

Still my shadow struggles but
works hard as any friend—
never giving up. 
Someday, I suppose,
I'll finally get a new one.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2020

Poem

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Lindley Avatar
April 19, 2020 at 11:22 AM
Masterfully done and very intriguing the concept. Our lifelong friend the shadow knows, it tags along for the free ride and tells us that we belong. So immensely cerebral and true vision from a poet's heart and truth. A fav, God bless..
Deschler Avatar
February 15, 2020 at 2:13 PM
Shadows are the most reliable friends anyone can have, they're always right there with us and can never really leave us alone completely... This is yet another great write from you Mark. Keep up the wonderful work my friend!
Peterson Avatar
March 7, 2020 at 8:31 PM
I treasure your comments, Kelly. Haven't posted much lately, but I know, whenever I do, you are there with needed support. Thank you so very much.
Devonshire Avatar
January 29, 2020 at 4:15 PM
Someday I hope you see only the shadow that comes from your halo, Mark. Love the way you describe the shadow having a hard time keeping up with him and also the way it changes as his body ages. Excellent writing! Best wishes, Carolyn
Peterson Avatar
January 30, 2020 at 12:18 AM
Yep, just me and my shadow and an end date to both: the date uncertain. Will there be shadows in the ethereal realm? Or none at all since all around is light, and we will be immersed in it.
Dietrich Avatar
January 29, 2020 at 3:41 PM
I love this, mark and line put a good word for it: Poignant!! very well done, my friend and thanks for the visit you paid me and my poems the other day.
Peterson Avatar
January 30, 2020 at 12:20 AM
Thanks, Andrea. My shadow is a constant companion, but only on sunny days. I wonder where he hides when the sun is not out.
Gauthier Avatar
January 15, 2020 at 2:45 PM
We can all relate. I love the evolution in your poem. Subtle, poignant and uplifting. A FAVE for me.
Peterson Avatar
January 21, 2020 at 8:59 PM
Thank you so much, Line. Each comment I receive is treasured and yours, particularly.
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