Lois Poem by Theresa Ann Moore

Haven’t seen my backdoor neighbor since winter’s thaw
Wondering what’s the reason for her unprecedented withdraw
By this time of year her springtime attentiveness commences
I miss her neighborly voice renewing friendships over fences

I met her yesterday at the local farmer’s market simply by chance
She pulled an oxygen tank behind her…a change of circumstance
So glad to see you, I said…it’s been awhile since we last talked
I have not seen you out and about…she filled me in as we walked

I don’t live behind you anymore…I am now living in a different state
Staying with my sister and her family now… just visiting on this date
Her only daughter, Rachael, will be marrying soon…she is also gone
The house is vacant... but a friend will be taking care of the lawn…

Setting my mind at ease… I was relieve and so pleased to see her
With an apparent effort to clarify she said…you know I have cancer.
I tried to reassure…as she calmly continued… nothing could be done
Given four to six months to live…her ninth month had just begun

I am truly blessed she said…and I do not choose to dwell
We smiled as we parted … neglecting to say farewell

5/30/08