Featured Poem: We Gathered in the Garden  

By Carol H Ehrlich
Denver Branch

 

“The ladies,” we were called

by the neighbors, our husbands,

even our children.

Noontime chores over,

kitchens cleaned up,

an hour welcome respite came most days—

a gift that was our due.

 

We joined in fellowship

in a backyard gazebo—

the reward for a job completed.

More than a duty discharged,

we knew the pleasure

of filling the role—

being parent, wife,

planner, cook and family nexus.

 

We exchanged successes and failures…

Some days a hug was needed

to succor one among us.

“The ladies” brought that gift too.

It was as free as air.

 

My recollections are warm and wistful.

Those were happy, uncomplicated days.

 

Many years later

I am left with a beautiful memory—

voices from the gazebo

still ring in my ear—priceless—

the lyrics of laughter.

 

11 comments

  1. Claire Massey says:

    The gift of friendship “as free as air”–what a lovely concept!
    Claire Massey
    NLAPW Poetry Editor

  2. Karen Morris says:

    The lasting importance of friendships centered around the image of the gazebo gives a very pleasant warmth to these memories..

  3. Barb Whitmarsh NLAPW says:

    ONE GREAT BIG TRUTHFUL PIECE OF POETRY
    NICE JOB. I SO WISH THOSE OLDER DAYS WERE BACK
    THANKS FOR SHARING

  4. Johnnye Gerhardt says:

    Long sigh. Loved it. You drew me in. I heard the gentle laughter and the sighs. Thank you for sharing that.

  5. Lori Zavada says:

    This poem makes me feel good! It definitely takes me back to simpler times, which is comforting. Thank you for sharing Carol.

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