Performing the daily rituals of our lives together
This month we sit down to our dinner outside
Inside the screened lanai area behind the house
Our January rental in southwest Florida.
We look out to the south at a few large pine trees
As the sun lowers to our right in the west
Enjoying the glow as the top of the central tree lights up
There are no other houses in view.
Watching and listening day after day we learn the ways
The robins arrive near sunset and gather in the dead tree
The catbirds take up mewing in the bushes
The calico cat on the prowl saunters past
I have my quiet thoughts going on thinking about a dream
Considering that largest long leaf pine tree nearest to us
Imagining the uncle I loved is there watching us
As was told in the letter I read in that dream.
One year ago his time to die arrived
Such a sweet good-bye so sad to make the last visit
And I carry on with my life hoping to be as good a person
Certain of the love he gave to know that I am worthy.
