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.
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