Difficult the start, strangers in the lounge,
awaiting belated trains on opposite rails,
at first nothing said, gradually a smile
that broke the ice, small talk for awhile.

Enraptured, intrigued by her beauty
her unique, matter of fact honest way,
so easily capturing all my attention
I began to listen to all she had to say.

 Inner feelings revealed by caring thoughts,
serious the tasks that confront her now,
all accepted by devotion to parental duty
 sacrifices few would be willing to undertake.

I offered a change of scene, a break, a getaway,
but sadly her tenacious sense of responsibility
turned aside the relief that could have been hers;
we then promised to stay in touch, indeed we are,
further encouraging my human faith, permitting
the blooming of a most wonderful lotus flower.

Herbert Holzbauer
September 2005

Midi: "I'm Sorry Love"
Leon Lai
(www.fortunecity.com)

Graphic: "Albany-Rensselear Train Station"
Photo: Robert Heller
(www.deepsoft.com)