by Larry Powers

Created on: August 04, 2009

Shadows of Dusk


In shadows of dusk
light wanes like a flickering candle.

Breezes ripple across the water,
wave upon wave
gently splash,
tickling the shoreline.
A bullfrog croaks in the distance -
a lonely sound echoing
into the wind -
whispering faintly
until it disappears.

A soft hand of companionship
caresses my leg -
comfort, warmth.
I rest my arm
across her shoulders;
for now, it's touch
that we most need.

We've no words to speak.
What can be said?
The tears fell all day -
without number.
Quiet and peace,
we came here to seek,
in a place of solace,
alone, together -
just your mom and me.

We received the telegram, Son.
We read it, and held it,
until tears blotched
the ink and the words
ran together.

The sorrow and pain
in your mother's green eyes
express the piercing
sting of my heartache.

We regret to inform you
that your son...
I close my eyes, the words swirl,
spiraling out of control,
...killed in the line of duty.

In shadows of dusk,
light wanes like a flickering candle.

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