Nadir

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Written, July 4, 2024
For The Contest, This Or that 26- "Nadir" or "Acme"
Sponsor, Edward Ebeh

In September 1958, we were stationed at
the Marine Corps base at Parris Island,
South Carolina.

My friend and I were both married to Marines
and we lived in family trailers
next to each other on the base.
We were both 19 years old.

The worst nadir in my young years that brings me still to shed sad tears; while I was pregnant- months to wait- September, nineteen fifty-eight. My new friend's child was six weeks old, and for a while, left me to hold and watch her for an hour or two while she ran errands that were due. I fed and rocked her sound to sleep; with love, my arms around her keep. When Mom returned, she quickly went; no signs of heartache- felt or sent. Come morning, we woke from a scream- and thought perhaps, Mom had a dream! But no! Such horror took our breath! Her baby passed- classed as crib death! I could not comfort my dear friend; her miracle came to an end. Just like myself, so filled with mirth- she'd waited for the thrill of birth. Now, sixty-five years since that day- this hurt within won't go away. Though from that base, we all did part- still feel my friend's pain in my heart.

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Beata Agustin

Date: 8/5/2024 3:00:00 AM

Congrats. Thanks for sharing this. God bless you.

Edward Ibeh

Date: 7/28/2024 4:30:00 PM

Moving and deeply personal write, Sandra. Thanks for sharing this harrowing story. Congratulations on your win in my contest!

Crystol Woods

Date: 7/28/2024 8:30:00 AM

Written so beautifully in rhyme... having experienced this horror with my own newborn son I know how deviated this can be. Ty for sharing! Xo

thriveni c mysore

Date: 7/27/2024 9:08:00 PM

congratulations on the win dear poet.

Beryl Edmonds

Date: 7/7/2024 2:41:00 AM

A heartbreaking read, so sad for your friend and you too… Beryl

Kim Rodrigues

Date: 7/5/2024 4:10:00 PM

So sorry for your loss, a friend’s loss, but still you held her sweet baby in your arms. Tragedy is never forgotten. hugs…

Daniel Henry Rodgers

Date: 7/5/2024 5:56:00 AM

Dear Sandra, Wow, I was truly moved! You are such a great storyteller who integrates emotional heartbreak and tragedy effectively. What a great tribute! – Blessings, My Friend, Daniel

Tom Woody

Date: 7/5/2024 5:52:00 AM

Goodness that is a low point in life, though, and I hate to say it, it could have been worse if it was you. Awesome rhymes, as always