It is fitting that the restaurant be almost deserted
that the table be in the back, in a dimly lit corner
for I seek not the company of others this night.

I seek the comfort of my thoughts of you
as I sip my wine and briefly scan the familiar menu
notice the tablecloth slightly worn but crisp and fresh.

A candle flickers illuminating the pool of wax at the base
like tears collecting over the years one on top of the other
and a single rose in a vase seems as alone as I.

With such love in my heart why seek the dismal
I ponder this as I look around the room with non-welcoming eyes
and see the couple being seated their faces aglow with love.

They could be you and me were they not so young
but we've lived most of our years already
though apart as close as the napkin I dab my tears with.

Someday we will enter this place hand in hand
seeking a table by the window where those passing by
will look in and see two people smiling at all the yesterdays.

© Marcia Miller-Twiford