I heard the freight train whistle in the dead of night
As across the rooftops it seemed to scream with fright
Looked out from from my window and gave owl a surprise
He blinked at me then flew off with wide glaring eyes
Silently he swooped off through the darkened trees
Tried to get back to sleep to close my weary mind
Dulled with mourning, losing friend who was always kind
We both married other partners much later on
But still it hurts to know that she too has gone
We both went to the same school; and walked her home too
Soon we were both married to loves of our varied lives
Crowded Britain lost us, went 'downunder' to thrive
Sailed to Australia to work and raise family
This was good as weather here is rarely chilly
However it's large, so always warm somewhere
Am old now and my body's sagging to be sure
I looked back, how fortunate we were so secure
No other country margins us, the sea is our border
So being here always has been such a bargain
Visit when you can, there is always a beach to swim
Yes, being an island certainly has helped you. Although, it isn't our (US) location that is our problem. The news of a lost friend, or just familiar name, someone we went to school with perhaps, from our past is hard, especially as we get older. I love your first line. That sound in the middle of the night is such a sad one.
ReplyDeleteHow wonderfully you let the memories flow - both sad and comforting at the same time
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