Life at Asbury Village

Plodding with their walkers,
Now so much a part of their daily lives,
Two women, stooped, slowly make their way
To the evening ritual.
With faint smiles, a hello or two
They join their waiting friends
Around the table for their evening meal.

Over dinner they take the time
To share their past.
Where they came from,
How the children grew up, and where;
What years husband was in the War
Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines,
And when and how he died.
Smiles go 'round as grandchildren
Are mentioned, or attentive daughters
Who come to play the part of mothers.

Back along the walkway the friends
Pause to view the sunset,
The colorful array of planted fall flowers, or
Listen to the soothing rain.
The walkers are not quite so burdensome
Their steps are stronger now
Their conversation lighter.

Night closes down and
Old age for the moment
Drops away from weary shoulders.
Life is good at Asbury Village,
And death must wait another day.

by Eleanor W. Cunningham