Chopsticks and the Moon

I learned to eat with chopsticks
From my spouse, on our first date.
It added something magical
To everything I ate.

He also taught me how to tell,
By looking at the moon,
Whether it was getting bigger
Or would disappear real soon.

 I told him that I understood,
Though often I would guess.
Was it waxing? Maybe waning?
Just one answer would impress.

But after years together,
He’s convinced I really know.
It’s one of his accomplishments
Of which he likes to crow.

He’s very wrong when he insists
That sums up all he’s taught;
For waxing moons and noodles are
A speck of what I’d sought.

Since marriage is a partnership,
There’s so much give and take;
And to think one person’s given more
Is sometimes a mistake.

I’ve been lucky on the getting side
Despite my husband’s doubts,
For the treasures I have reaped
Have far exceeded any droughts.

When I reminisce I can’t forget
Those moments opportune
And the charming way it all began -
With chopsticks and the moon.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2012

Poem

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Poet Avatar
March 10, 2012 at 3:07 AM
Love this poem Ilene!Very nice!Thanks for your comments at my pages.
Dietrich Avatar
March 5, 2012 at 11:48 PM
this is what I call a CHARMING poem. Much enjoyed, Ilene!!! sounds like you have had a great marriage.
Brown Avatar
March 5, 2012 at 5:42 AM
I enjoyed reading your excellent piece of poetry today Ilene. I hope this new week ahead proves fruitful to you within your life and in your poetry also. Love, Carol
Johnson-Saunders Avatar
March 4, 2012 at 11:39 PM
I enjoyed reading this charming poem tonight. You are so right about the give and take of marriage. Sometimes I feel like I take more than I give. Although my husband would probably say otherwise. These are beautiful memories shared. Blessings, Rhonda
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