“Chasing Peas and Singing Johnny Mathis”
By Andrea Blackington
“Andrea!”
Papa lights up, eyes wide, head lifted in delight, an abundant smile.
I cross the threshold of the community dining room to kneel down to meet him.
He looks into my face, looks about the room,
then continues to fidget with his napkin, then pants’ leg.
I watch him, feeling my gaze streaming forth from the center of my chest.
He continues to follow his peas and carrots around the plate with his fork, three quarters of his dinner spilling onto the table, a small portion onto his shirt.
He used to be precise in his movements,
his chewing, wiping his mouth clean with a folded napkin every couple of bites,
careful not to soil the linen tablecloth, or his gently ironed shirt.
I watch him, I don’t need a conversation,
he hums a tune into the ether, admiring him I listen.
He is transitioning,
This one among many days.
So I sit and wait with him,
Chasing peas,
And Singing Johnny Mathis.
Andrea Blackington is a comrade of the mystics, exploring life through the interplay between the inner worlds, nature, and lessons amidst culture and community. She practices her technique as a guide, teacher, meditation practitioner, nurse and poet.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Pieces appearing in the Poet’s Corner are regularly selected by the Methuen-based Grey Court Poets. To have your work considered, contact them at greycourtpoets@gmail.com and find out about joining their group.
