The Lost Years

The Lost Years EDIE Edie looks well for her age, Hard to believe she’s almost 94. A widow wife these past 72 years, Lost husband Bill, in the 2nd World war. Bill was presumed killed in action, Though his body, was never found. Silently she grieved all these years, Was he lying, in unmarked ground? Edie lives in a small country cottage, In the High Peak town of Glossop. Moved from Ashton in the Fifties, To work in the local Hosiery shop. Two siblings, Jean and Tommy Joe Good friends, who love her dear. Whist Drive and Dom’s in the Feathers, A Natter and glass of Stout beer. Bingo at the Workers on Sunday, You’d be surprised how often she’s won. A feisty, keenly independent lady, An old girl who likes to have fun. Edie often asked herself the question; Why did they send her Bill to fight? A proud and gallant young soldier, She often felt something, wasn’t right. One icy cold night after Bingo, Edie slipped and fractured her wrist. A short stay in Tameside General, A break from the Feathers and the Whist. She met an old man in the day room, Who appeared to catch her stare, Watching TV with a foot in plaster, “Two broken bones, don’t we look a pair”. GILBERT Badly injured and barely conscious, Gilbert was nursed by a couple in Dieppe. They guessed that he was English, Falling exhausted at their doorstep. Eleven long years they cared for him Before they sadly passed away. Loving, adoptive French parents, Made ready, his liberation day. Gilbert doesn’t recall, life before the war. Left Dieppe for Manchester, Summer of ‘55. In a curious, Mancunian French accent, Would say “I’m just thankful to be alive”. Although he barely spoke English, He was drawn to the Lancashire hills. Learnt a trade in Timothy White’s, and a lifetime of dispensing pills. Gilbert lives at Ashton Grove Residential, A home befitting this Bachelor King. No one really knows how old he is, But he can certainly joke, dance and sing. One night he tripped upon his stage, Falling awkward, he broke his left foot. A short stay in Tameside General, Protested, but knew he must stay put. EDIE & GILBERT Edie and Gilbert would talk for hours, During their rather impromptu stay. As if they’d known each other forever In some emotional, perceptive way. Gilbert had lost his early years, But reflected of a full and wonderful life. Edie was gracious and contented, Despite 72 years, a widow wife. Edie was as giddy as a school girl, As she listened to Gilberts romancing. In adversity had never felt happier, Her young heart, ready for dancing. He smiled in a way she’d remember, Of a time that made her heart fill. Smiling back, put her hand to his face, and with a tearful eye asked; “is that you Bill”?