DAY BY DAY

thought after though: Prompt: Emma's Group

I do not want to be alone as I age

the love of my life is nine years older than me

I relish each day I shall have time with him

yet I dread the day that he passes before me

thus, my thoughts are constant day by day

 

When I am near him, and he slumbers like a baby

I check his breathing

it frightens me when it accelerates and is brassy

I struggle to let him be and not awaken him

 

We are reaching our 40 th anniversary the last of March

and I keep thinking this will be our last big one

there is much uncertainty about another

 

When we first me on a blind date

our age difference was of no consequence

we bonded in passion

nightly trysts by candle light

many gazes and laughs

traveled the world

 

Now, he is frail, weak, and tries intensely to please me

I am so grateful for his efforts

still, I have the energy to go, exercise, travel

yet I loathe that I must do most affairs alone

and my thoughts day after day remind me that to lose him

would be tragic

our unique affinity shall be just a memory

 

 

 

 

 

 

Author's Note

Thank you for reading!

Reviews

[Hossain Belal]

This poem beautifully expresses the deep emotions of love, aging, and the fear of loss. The poet reflects on their relationship, filled with both joy and anxiety as they face the inevitability of time passing. It captures the bittersweet reality of growing old with someone, cherishing the moments together, but also worrying about the future. The simple yet profound feelings of love and vulnerability resonate throughout, making it relatable for anyone who has experienced a close, meaningful relationship.

[Betty Hermelee]

a very thorough review and thoughtful as well, you definitely are spot on with your understanding of the poem; thank you for stopping by
Warmly, B🌷🌷🌷🌷

[Kelly Scheppers]

I think most women are afraid to be left a widow. My mom, sister and grandmother all lost their husbands tragically, and here my husband has been left vision impaired by a cornea disease for years, that allows him to only see mere outlines of what is before him. I miss they way we used to be, but now, I do most things alone. Having your 40th anniversary is a milestone. Be strong, and hold onto your faith. I wish you well!

[Betty Hermelee]

Thank you so much Kelly; it is hard and many times frustrating, yet I know I must take one day at a time and make the best of it; thank you your support and I support you as well🌷🌷🌷🌷
Warmly
B😊

[Kelly Scheppers]

Thank you, Betty! I appreciate that!

[Kady R.]

Hiiii Betty!!! Wonderful poem!! I'm sorry for what you are going threw and at the same time congratulations for being together for so long!! 40 years. I can only imagine all the moments and memories you've had together while reading your poem it really painted a picture thank you for sharing.

[Betty Hermelee]

Thank you Kady for stopping an writing such a lovely review
Warmly
B🌷🌷🌷

[red93]

Love this Betty, so personal and intimate. Exceptional ✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️

[Betty Hermelee]

Thank you so much, appreciated!
Warmly, B

[Desert Knave]

Such a personal write. Both of my folks are in their late 80's and I dread the day I can no longer talk to them. ~Jim

[Betty Hermelee]

Thank you for you kind review!
Warmly, B

[Mauricio Montoya]

Wow, Betty, this write you have to read , the first senza has a deep.meaning but you have read to understand but the words got you ,
You got to find the end, you carry us as we read on.lol its a good idea and excellent in how you brought it together. Thank you for sharing. Your amigo Mauricio

[Betty Hermelee]

Thank you Mauricio, for a lovely review!
Warmly, B

[Chris Shaw]

A very touching write Betty and as we age those thoughts can become quite invasive. Still, we have a life time of more positives in the memory bank to call upon. I know exactly where you are coming from. A very sensitive and personal write dear poet. 🌹

Chris

[Betty Hermelee]

Thank you deeply Chris...am trying to take each day at a time.... your review goes to my heart....read moreThank you deeply Chris...am trying to take each day at a time.... your review goes to my heart....
Warmly, B

[Jimmy Crapped Corn]

Terrible things we have to look forward to. I thought I was a genius, never remarriage, but no, a fool.

[Betty Hermelee]

Yes, I agree, but am trying to see the brighter side;
thank you for your lovely review
Warmly, B

[Michael Sun Bear]

Hello Betty, thank you for sharing such intimate thoughts and feelings. I am rather at a loss for words. Many of us are at an age requiring us to deal with the issues you describe, face living our final years without a partner; I am already there, and it is lonely. I do find it helps to write and read here in the Cafe.

[Betty Hermelee]

Thank you so much for a thoughtful review!
Warmly
B🌷

[Fabian G. Franklin]

I'm ten years senior of my wife. I may outlive her just to be stubborn. But I have every reason to go on living. Life is good. Such a sad and personal write but I can empathize and understand.

[Betty Hermelee]

Thank you Fabian….i shouldn’t worry and i’m trying hard to live each day and enjoy….your comments are appreciated🌷🌷🌷🌷Warmly
B