Upon the Banks of the Canal

Upon the Banks of the Canal I sit here sipping cider on the banks of the canal, I watch you as you walk and talk at great lengths with your pal. I feel you as you hold the hand of love that’s in your life, I see the way your eyes light up when you look at your wife. I spy the gaze of toddlers, all just figuring out their place, I breathe as runners pass me, each at war with their own pace. I glimpse the love that binds two hands and brings about those smiles, I see the life shine in those eyes and spur them on for miles. I stand and stretch, shake off the dust and gaze at swimming ducks, I envy passers by that revel in their own good luck. I know the ones who’re down and out, who need a helping hand, I see the spoils that should be shared across forgotten land. I cry for you, the way I think I likely always will, I envy people in our places, but I feel you, still. I note beginnings just like ours, when we were oh so young, I see the hopes and dreams emerge, just as Spring is sprung. I finish up my cider and survey the banks again, I spot the people pack their things and baide farewell to friends. I view lives lived and people loved; here I don’t feel broken, I see a way to feel again, my heart might just reopen. I step away, I leave the banks; I leave you waiting there, I’ll walk a thousand miles, but I’ll still feel you everywhere. It’s hard to walk away, but walk away I know I shall, I’ll find you love, right there, upon the banks of the canal. For Roy, By Sarah Michelle Ritchie.