Moving Day

Moving Day
My fears were transparent
I experienced soul wrenching heartache
For the only city I had lived in receded
In the car’s mirror with each passing minute
My neighbors, stores, schools, and friends would be gone.

My new husband showed his compassion for me
By giving me his favorite handkerchief to wipe away my tears
My desire to scream, “Stop the car!”
And jump out of the car to run back, was unspoken
I remembered my vow to be by him in sickness and health
Wherever he went, popped up in my mind.

As hours and miles passed, I thought of the women
Who followed their men, Ruth, Sacajawea and my grandmothers
I would try to be brave as they were
Try to let time heal the wound I felt was still there.

And when we crossed the state line
And came to the new city limits I held my breath
I felt that the next chapter of my life would be
A challenge and opportunity for me to completely mature
With the help of the man I always wanted to be with.