Monday, February 17, 2020

ODE TO A FORMER SOLDIER

House of God
My home away from home
Three long days
Proud of a job well done
Leaving late to my real home
Museum pieces litter the hallways

At the foot of Queen Victoria
WWII display case
History trumps smart phone
Walking by I reach out
Resource Librarian in my heart
Don't miss the bigger find around the corner

I slow, puzzled, as he turns
We connect
You don't know Norman Bethune?
Communist Hero ?
Mcgill Thoracic Surgeon?
Statue at Guy-Concordia?

I offer to show him
Regain my pace
Baseline fast
Strides too long
He peels away towards me
Catches and keeps up

Tall, handsome
Listening and talking
Former soldier
Waiting for an MRI
Not so young but not old enough
Stride for stride

We are here.
He slows, then turns to investigate
Photos, painting, instruments
Enjoy! Hesitates?
I march past
I am almost out, almost home

Outside, I see it in reverse
Grateful for a stranger
Gifts of time, effort, interest
Reminds me I have something
Hope for someday








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