An Incomprehensible

I have many quirks, but there was only one that disturbed both my husband and my Mother.

He was quizzical, never quite understanding, and just would ask simply, “Why?”

Mom found it infuriating and it made her totally incomprehensible of her daughter’s choice.

Today I hear both their ever remembered voices as I fold the item gently in white tissue paper and place it in the square cardboard box. It has been with me a long time, and deserves good care. The color is gray, not because of age, but by design and I hope whoever inherits it is aware of its worth.

It is my garment of comfort. Ah yes, I have many others relinquishing in the closet, hanging side by side and worn occasionally. This one, however, was worn daily despite age, or lack of beauty. It was not a gift nor was it costly and yes I cannot deny it is aged.

However for some vague reason I have clung to it through thick and thin. Through tears and laughter; through happiness and loss, I have worn it everyday.

It has weathered well, but now mortality has begun to show as most likely, also with its owner. The fabric has begun to shred in several obvious areas, and once again I hear my Beloved say,

“Anne, why?”

There was never any financial need to cling to this simple cotton sheath, not even its neuter color. It was never flattering, yet instinctively, I groped for it every morning and It became my companion when I sipped dark black coffee. They were almost the same inky shade.

I packed it in overnight bags when we traveled, and never left it home alone when we vacationed.

However, when I had an unexpected visitor this morning, I noticed a subtle look of surprise (and or horror) at my attire, and I knew immediately.

It was time to say “Adieu, you have served me well,” and send it to other pastures for recycling.

However, I will mourn the loss of my faded gray cotton shift that shared not only breakfast but life with me for many a year in many places.

And I doubt if I will ever find a replacement.

And once again I hear the remembered voices saying, “That’s good.”