SEPARATION

He left me again today

even as his vacant eyes gazed into mine

The touch of his hand was real, but he was away

Today was not my time.

Away, living a life I never knew

In another time, another place

Weaving in and out of boyhood

Visiting old and distant friends

Eyes gazing over my shoulder

From another reality, leaving me behind.

Lips smiled, hands gestured, reaching out for what?

Only he could know.

Conversing with someone in his distant past

Making plans, eyes sparkling with glee

Living anew the life he was forced to soon to leave.

Reluctant to intrude on his momentary happiness

I leave him to his reality, the awesome world of his mind

Knowing in some other hour, at some other time

He will return and his smile will be for me alone.

For a few moments, if I'm lucky perhaps a day

He will be mine again, the way he used to be and

I will once again be blessed.

*********

Comments: 9

Nathan Schauer Apr 11, 2008, 9:53pm EDT

This is a powerful and touching portrait of the 'separation' caused not by distance but by the advance of disease. In this sadness you find light and that is what makes it glow.

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marie Pinschmidt Apr 14, 2008, 5:34pm EDT

Thanks Nathan and Shannon. My husband died in 2000. I was determined not to succumb to grief or loneliness and as a consequence, I've written a memoir and three novels since he left me. I recommend writing(or painting) to anyone facing a similar situation. It can be mentally and physically life sustaining, and very rewarding. Marie

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Edward Nudelman Apr 15, 2008, 4:58pm EDT

yes, this is wonderfully crafted, and elicits a sadness that is full of the understanding and power of love. Really nice.

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marie Pinschmidt Apr 16, 2008, 7:21pm EDT

Thanks, Ed. As I've admitted previously, I don't consider myself a poet, but occasionally my muse hands me an idea I can't ignore. Prose comes much easier for me. Marie

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Erin E. Grunewald Nov 29, 2008, 5:12pm EST

This is a highly touchy and emotional piece, evoking both the depression and the understanding of love, loss, and loneliness. You have expressed the feeling especially well, and painted through words a very realistic accompanying scene. I like it!

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Kevin E. Nov 29, 2008, 10:53pm EST

Well written and very touching. My deepest sympathy to you my friend!

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marie Pinschmidt Nov 30, 2008, 8:12pm EST

Thanks to Erin and Kevin for your comments. It is difficult to let go of someone you love but I'm thankful I had him for a number of years. In regard to my writing and painting, he would most definitely have said, "Go for it, girl". It's nice to be back with the Gather group and I'll attempt to submit more material. Marie Pinschmidt

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William Dotani Jan 19, 2009, 2:51am EST

Although the narrator is sad, the words flow with a knowing, or a calm acceptance the this man's disease has changed his awareness of character. The story is told is an easy to understand manner because you want your audience to know this truth. I simply love the pacing of your rhythm.

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marie Pinschmidt Jan 19, 2009, 11:29am EST

Thank you so much William. You encourage me to try more poetry, although I need to feel strongly about a subject before the words appear. Age is teaching me to accept that which I cannot change; the only way to find contentment.

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Comments: 9

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