MILDRED'S KINDRED SPIRIT
BY RICHARD HIRSHEN
AUGUST 11, 2001

Hi grandma, it's me Richard
Come to visit after all these years
Can you hear me where you are?
Can you push me forward?

I'm not the boy in knickers
Melting against your bosom pouch
Your lap of luxurious soft love
Near the window, on the couch

In your Shattuck Ave. flat, I was on display
The fables which you read to me then
Were my protective suit of armor
Which I've lost along the way

Your closet was a treasure chest
Your kitchen where I became a chef
Life became a test when you left
But here today, I put my fears to rest

If you could see me now what would you say?
Would you know that I've a lovely wife?
That I make chicken soup like yours every day?
That we have a horse and feed it hay?

I wish that I could have you back
Your silent strength is what I need
But I'll settle for a whispered sign
Saying you're still here for me

Once seed is sown and harvest reaped
I imagine that you proudly sleep
And if you might hear, before too long
I'll be back to sing you a song