Imagination And Memory Poem by Jim Yerman

I never know what will happen…what memories I'll see
but I love when my imagination merges with my memory.

My memory picks a person…sometimes quite randomly
and my imagination sets that person…right in front of me.

It happened at the end of a morning walk
in the shadow of our oak tree
When I looked up…Deborah's mom…was smiling next to me.

And it was just as I remember…though she left us long ago
the way her smile lit up her face and set her eyes aglow.

I was unable to say a word…I was captivated…enthralled.
She did not speak either…but her smile said it all.

It reminded me how she loved us…with a love gentle and kind
and when I found my voice I thanked her for the memories she left behind.

I told her not to worry…standing in the shade of that old tree
for I am taking care of your daughter
and she's taking care of me.

Silently she nodded her head…as the night surrendered to the dawn
We exchanged another smile….and in an instant…she was gone.

As I say…imagination is a wonderful thing
when it merges with a memory…
You never know what might happen…
You never know who you might see.