She Knew Her Place

More about She Knew Her Place

No watchful gaze,
no trilled demands for treats.
No soft body pressed close
to steady the drifting days.

Pretty as the irises on the sill,
she knew her place—
giving Betty something to hold onto
when her thoughts slip sideways.

Gentle lap landings and strong licks,
a naughty dash through the door
when the stroller paused
just enough to stir the air.

Now the bed stretches wide,
the chair stands empty,
and Betty need not smuggle breakfast biscuits,
or shush and beckon her child.

What will she do without that presence
without that love to steady her
as memory fades,
and the world drifts away?