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December 03, 2004
Gave Everything
Blue spruce needles spin and twist in hands gnarled with arthritis as clouded watery brown eyes stare off at the horizon. The porch is dimly lit by the setting sun and the brilliant orange and purple sky. David’s once strong hands pull at the needles and then draw them close to his wizened face. Sucking in a large breath he sampled their scent and smiled knowingly. “That’s another thing that never gunna changes” he continued peacefully leaning heavily on the rail his tattered bible tucked under his arm.
David took a small sip from his nearby cup, his breath came slow and shallow as he gestured towards the sunset: “Have I done it?” he questioned taking a gentle step back inquisitively. He fingered his wedding ring anxiously. “Can’t I git you something… maybe someone else?” Spittle formed in the corner of his mouth as he spoke.
“No. Thanks though. You’ve helped. Just enough.” Came the response.
David’s eyes widened suddenly focused in the gathering darkness letting the fragrant needles fall unheeded to the porch floor. “I guess that’s it them” he said with a contented sigh as the sun’s orb flashed it’s last ray over the tangled landscape.
As David gathered his cup and prepared to head into the house he stood a little taller and then stopped suddenly and spun around his old work boots squeaking out their complaints.
“Ya know on second thought, you better take this too, jus to make sure you got it awl.” He said smiling broadly. He walked gingerly to the edge of the rail and leaning hard on his left arm he swung the cup out into the air. His arm was shook with age as it always did. But this time… was it excitement?
The simple cup was strung out in mid-air by his wiry arm for an eternity. “I’ll get to see her then?” he whispered.
“Of course” was the response.
“Alright then, I’m ready” David said as he tipped the cup and poured every last drop onto the ground.
Posted by paul at December 3, 2004 10:00 PM