“A Pleasant Walk

To paraphrase the words of another, “We speak of many things,” Will and I.

He challenges me historically and yes, geographically, as we share PBS documentaries.

I share my memories of his beloved Grandpa, who ever remains in his heart,

The long and sometimes provocative conversations shared on Sundays are the highlight of my week.

Of course, he is capable of doing more than I; both intellectually and obviously, physically.

His topics of interest challenge me and often I am at a loss. Then we research the proper response to his question.

This past week a long remembered poem I had learned in sixth grade became a topic of conversation and interest for both of us.

We were reflecting on the wonderful friends my grandson has met while visiting me weekly at Cordia.

Then the topic abruptly changed to a recollection of friendships in other places.

Will recalled those shared during his earlier years while traveling across our vast country as part of a military family.

And I recalled friends of mine from yesteryear as they returned into sharp focus.

While Will shared a few minutes of nostalgia remembering a classmate in El Paso, I recalled Veronique.

With the help of the ever patient Google, I retrieved a poem she and I once recited in class together.

It seemed so appropriate as this amazing grandson of mine listened and I read the words:

“So on the ocean of life, we pass and speak one another, only a look and a voice, then darkness again and a silence.”

And I knew the words written by Longfellow would be long remembered by Will as his world moves on.