Connections
I saw a kindly friend in church today--
I say "a friend" because I know her well
Like all the rest, her name, address, the way
She smiles and says, "good morning," takes
Her seat four seats away from mine.
An hour later we chat pleasantly
Exchanging greetings, polite concerns, feeling
Nothing.
I stopped in town to see a relative
We get along, but don't see eye to eye--
A bit of cake, a cup of tea, a word
Or two.."how are the kids?" Answers we
Already know, and I go home.
"I see you're back. How soon till lunch?
Where is the paper? The TV guide? The puppy
Food? Did you forget? You seem upset."
No, I'm fine.
I shut them out, believing they don't really care
So long as clothes are clean and lunch is there
On time. I sign on to the Internet..
American On Line, and see a friend.
Your words on screen, your picture near at hand,
Your voice recalled like music in my mind....
You read a phrase or two and understand
And send your gentle words through fiberoptic
Lines to soothe an empty heart. Our fingers touch
The keys--in unison at times as thoughts
Identical connect our hearts.
I watch for you, and you for me
And breath a small contented sigh that you are here,
And that even distanced as we are
You know and care.
Some acquaintance calls---a mundane thing.
Our physical connection will be lost,
But your voice, your face, your imagined touch,
Your undemanding love, your words
Will give me strength for one more day--will tuck
themselves into the hollow spots--and shield
My heart from those so close they cannot see.
Copyright © Karen Ruff | Year Posted 2014
Post Comments
Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.
Please
Login
to post a comment