Just The Way It Is
The rituals of a senior couple31 total reviews
Comment from Ulla
Yes, aging can certainly be like that, but it can also be the exact opposite. I for one refuse to end up like that. I acknowledge that one day it will come upon me, but until then I will fight it with all my might. Ulla:)))
reply by the author on 02-Jul-2022
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Yes, aging can certainly be like that, but it can also be the exact opposite. I for one refuse to end up like that. I acknowledge that one day it will come upon me, but until then I will fight it with all my might. Ulla:)))
Comment Written 02-Jul-2022
reply by the author on 02-Jul-2022
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Ulla, hardworking country folk like in this poem do not view this existence as a negative. They view it as a respite from all the struggles that preceded this point where they can just sit on the front porch and relax. Thank you for reading my poem and rating it.
Comment from royowen
You've created a beautifully atmospheric work here with the lovely actively involved narrative, with kindly and related folk getting on fine, and protective "he", beautifully written, good luck, blessings Roy
reply by the author on 02-Jul-2022
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You've created a beautifully atmospheric work here with the lovely actively involved narrative, with kindly and related folk getting on fine, and protective "he", beautifully written, good luck, blessings Roy
Comment Written 02-Jul-2022
reply by the author on 02-Jul-2022
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Thank you for reading and rating my poem.
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Most welcome
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Welcome
Comment from Jannypan (Jan)
You did a great job, Sandra, with your contest entry.
I enjoyed reading it and could see everything due to
your use of descriptive imagery creating words. Yes,
the old couple has weathered so much in their marriage,
no words need to be spoken. Theirs is a marriage of
unwavering true love with a sense of understanding
and belonging they have built together. I believe many
will identify with this in their own life or that of grandparents.
Thanks for sharing and best wishes in the contest, Jan
reply by the author on 02-Jul-2022
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You did a great job, Sandra, with your contest entry.
I enjoyed reading it and could see everything due to
your use of descriptive imagery creating words. Yes,
the old couple has weathered so much in their marriage,
no words need to be spoken. Theirs is a marriage of
unwavering true love with a sense of understanding
and belonging they have built together. I believe many
will identify with this in their own life or that of grandparents.
Thanks for sharing and best wishes in the contest, Jan
Comment Written 02-Jul-2022
reply by the author on 02-Jul-2022
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Thank you, Jan, for reading and rating my poem. Some have stated it reminded them of their forever loves.
Comment from K. Lang-Slattery
Thanks for a lovely poem that highlights the daily sameness of life in old age. I'm so glad it didn't dwell on the ups and downs of medical issues that are also part of this time in our lives. I especially like the line: "Their solitude is only broken when she pats his hand," because it speaks of the way we can remain separate even with a life-long companion.
reply by the author on 02-Jul-2022
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Thanks for a lovely poem that highlights the daily sameness of life in old age. I'm so glad it didn't dwell on the ups and downs of medical issues that are also part of this time in our lives. I especially like the line: "Their solitude is only broken when she pats his hand," because it speaks of the way we can remain separate even with a life-long companion.
Comment Written 02-Jul-2022
reply by the author on 02-Jul-2022
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Thank you for reading and rating my poem.
Comment from Annmuma
Your characters are clearly defined and easily recognized -- at least, by me. I've seen those people; I know those people. The rocking chairs further illustrate their occupants. I love this poem. Good luck in the contest. ann
reply by the author on 02-Jul-2022
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Your characters are clearly defined and easily recognized -- at least, by me. I've seen those people; I know those people. The rocking chairs further illustrate their occupants. I love this poem. Good luck in the contest. ann
Comment Written 02-Jul-2022
reply by the author on 02-Jul-2022
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Thank you so much Mrs. Ann. I too know these people in my rural Virginia hometown. I appreciate your comments and rating.
Comment from GARY MACLEAN
I am Lucky, I am very lucky. You describe the love my wife and I have, so clearly and spot on. It's a love not necessarily of lust or passion but one of familiarity, trust, respect and understanding. Such a good feeling to know what the next day will bring. And, yes, we too look closely at one another should we happen to cough too loudly or gasp or make any other unworldly noise. We do so because we cannot lose each other. We simply cannot!!!
Excellent verse, very soothing and personally retrospective. Well worth the six-stars I am giving you.
reply by the author on 02-Jul-2022
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I am Lucky, I am very lucky. You describe the love my wife and I have, so clearly and spot on. It's a love not necessarily of lust or passion but one of familiarity, trust, respect and understanding. Such a good feeling to know what the next day will bring. And, yes, we too look closely at one another should we happen to cough too loudly or gasp or make any other unworldly noise. We do so because we cannot lose each other. We simply cannot!!!
Excellent verse, very soothing and personally retrospective. Well worth the six-stars I am giving you.
Comment Written 02-Jul-2022
reply by the author on 02-Jul-2022
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Yes indeed Mr. Gary you are extremely LUCKY to have found someone to love till the end of time. I appreciate you reading my poem and relating to it. Read it aloud to your wife and read the review you gave me to her. There's nothing like finding new ways to say I love you to a seasoned love partner. My poem "Kiss Back to the Beginning" in my portfolio will also fit you and your wife. Have a blessed 4th of July and thanks again.
Comment from Regina Elliott
Wow Sandra, I hope you win
with this dignified and gracious poem on an elderly
couple's lives. You have such
marvelous writing skills.
I plan on editing my latest
poem soon. Thank you so
much for the guidance. ~
reply by the author on 02-Jul-2022
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Wow Sandra, I hope you win
with this dignified and gracious poem on an elderly
couple's lives. You have such
marvelous writing skills.
I plan on editing my latest
poem soon. Thank you so
much for the guidance. ~
Comment Written 02-Jul-2022
reply by the author on 02-Jul-2022
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You are acting like a dignified and gracious person. Many on this site get pissed at my critiques. I am rooting for all writers and especially if they are female. I am a fan!
Comment from Fleedleflump
This is beautiful, simple as that. I wish I could end it there but let's add some specifics. You had be at the descriptions of the passing car lights as hellos, and I adore 'tight lipped ease' - you brilliantly show us that ironclad love of long term partners who are each other's world without being show-offs :-).
So glad I haven't read many excellent posts this week and still have some sixers left!
Mike
reply by the author on 02-Jul-2022
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This is beautiful, simple as that. I wish I could end it there but let's add some specifics. You had be at the descriptions of the passing car lights as hellos, and I adore 'tight lipped ease' - you brilliantly show us that ironclad love of long term partners who are each other's world without being show-offs :-).
So glad I haven't read many excellent posts this week and still have some sixers left!
Mike
Comment Written 02-Jul-2022
reply by the author on 02-Jul-2022
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Mike you are ALWAYS so generous and kind about my work. You are greatly appreciated and so talented as a writer.
Comment from Tom Horonzy
VIvidly describing the scene repeated endlessly, at least in rural settings, where the elderly are more free to unworry being shot or mugged. In a review to me you wrote how you weren't so big on poetry but verse. This piece shows you are extremely capable writing verse. Worth 6 stars.
reply by the author on 02-Jul-2022
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VIvidly describing the scene repeated endlessly, at least in rural settings, where the elderly are more free to unworry being shot or mugged. In a review to me you wrote how you weren't so big on poetry but verse. This piece shows you are extremely capable writing verse. Worth 6 stars.
Comment Written 02-Jul-2022
reply by the author on 02-Jul-2022
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Thank you, Tom, for reading my poem and for your generous rating. Yes, I do enjoy writing in free verse. It's how I have written for over 40 years. Yes, this is a scene repeatedly seen in rural areas like where I live in central Virginia.
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We lived in Va., from 82-89, Rocky Mount, a little south of Roanoke. Great place. Today we live on 67 acres in the foothills of NC.
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Rocky Mount is about 40 minutes from my home. I live at the base of the Peaks of Otter Mountain range. I can see the mountains from my dining room. You have a lot of land to run free in. Good for you! Enjoy the 4th of July!
Comment from Katherine M. (k-11)
Enduring love is a wonderful thing to see, but I find your poem sad. It paints a picture of a world closing in and restrictions. I see no sign of the 'stay active' that the doctor advocated, and yet it is so important to keep an active mind as well as an active body, right to the end. Kate xx
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reply by the author on 02-Jul-2022
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Enduring love is a wonderful thing to see, but I find your poem sad. It paints a picture of a world closing in and restrictions. I see no sign of the 'stay active' that the doctor advocated, and yet it is so important to keep an active mind as well as an active body, right to the end. Kate xx
This rating does not count towards story rating or author rank.
The highest and the lowest rating are not included in calculations.
Comment Written 02-Jul-2022
reply by the author on 02-Jul-2022
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No, it's not intended to be sad. This is a scene repeatedly seen in rural areas like where I live in central Virginia. Here, older couples find respite in sitting together and enjoy the fresh air away from the hurried, dangerous existence many feel in the city. The stay active is a standard line most ignore from doctors. Thank you for reading my poem. I appreciate your rating and comments.
