It begins with a look
Across the dinner table
As children babble stories,
Lunchroom jokes, bus escapades,
Teacher agonies, allowance requirements,
Demands of attention.
Over the hubbub their eyes meet
Not seeing the hastily prepared food,
Soda pop cans, her mother’s dishes,
Today’s mail, yesterday’s newspaper.
Wisp of a smile, tilt of the head
Communicate their need.
Clatter of dishes into the sink,
The blaring of the living room TV,
Trash to empty, laundry awaits.
They pass in the hall –
Another smile, a pat on the back
That lingers, slides slowly downward.
Quick kiss … then on to
Bills to pay, homework to oversee,
Refereeing the battle of teens
Over the telephone, the computer line.
Eyes meet over the bobbing heads;
Knowing looks hold promise.
Arguments settled, phone quiets
Ten o’clock news rumbles in the
Background, ignored
Lost in the white sounds of
Household machines taking
Their last rounds of the day.
Doors locked, lights extinguished.
They retire to their room
Seeking the promise begun with
A look across the dinner table.
Together they celebrate the vitality of life
Created through their love.