Son---if you could see

me now. This wrinkled flesh
with its mis-steps
and a slurring dialogue

in crinkly shirt
missed button setting me up
for a chuckle or two

a gait unsteady as I
cross a sidewalk or not.

Getting older a joy since
time slows down
among friends sharing

tales taller after each telling --
apple pie still tasty
more so with extra pieces
an eye out for doctor no.

Phone calls and letters
e-mails too bring a pride
yet contact with you is cold
distance the culprit --

though each day diminishes
love for you reigns in my heart.

© Richard L. Provencher