Statues and plaques or a warmth in someone's heart. How will you be remembered? |
Silent Wisdom Statues and plaques - we seldom see; we don’t look or pay attention. Yet they are a part of our history. Their call from the past: “Remember me.” seems beyond our comprehension. I saw him from across the square, his studied gaze was so intent. I felt his pull, drawing me there and though I was very aware, I wondered “Why did I assent?” He sat there in a burnished coat, his eyes affixed upon a page inscribed with some forgotten quote that long ago someone had wrote said by an unremembered sage. It was his eyes that did engage for I could tell that he could see beyond the silent rusted page the world around him, like a stage, displayed a new reality. Through years of sunshine and of rain he watched with curiosity as the actors overcame each pain and discovered happiness again without any animosity. Upon his face, a gentle smile as though our struggles touched his heart, as thought his wait had been worthwhile. Yet his wisdom, garnered without guile, remained within this work of art. And so I gently touched his hand to reassure him, he’d been heard, to let him know I understand - life isn’t always how we planned … but then I saw a single word. I don’t know how I didn’t see, yet, somehow, of its own accord, his hand stretched out poignantly pointing his message out to me: “Patience is its own reward.” In the end, the name doesn’t matter; it’s only the truth that we share. Long after my ashes scatter, if my words aren’t just chatter, those I’ve touched will continue to care. … and I can’t hope for more. Notes An entry for September’s "SENIOR CENTER FORUM" [ASR] Prompt: “Remember Me” The photograph is “The Scholar in Bronze” taken by a friend visiting Cambridge, England. Thank you for taking time to read my words. I would appreciate it if you took a moment and left a comment. Your reaction, impressions, criticisms, - yes, even praise are all equally welcome. Ken |