Til Death

She has bathed his feet
with her golden tresses
but the moment grey
and blown by his faltering breath
she recalls all
he has done for her.

Not in the uncomplicated ways
of a mother-woman
but the mischievious ways
of a blushing boy
mind-set
on impressing his lover
and later
a loyal soldier's duty
to protect his territory.

Some had complained to her
about this change,
certain that the embarassed boy
had been a better husband
than the stern soldier.

This thought raises
the corners of her thin lips
as she kisses his chapped;
salved by the grim reaper.

She is glad that she has known
all of him
for had this not been so
there would be fewer memories
to love
and she would not be here
to watch his spirit
fly out the window
after 65 years of marriage.

(c)--Christina Cowling