I Picked Up a Pen Today

The sun was shining today, shining bright with the cool breeze of winter. So heavy in my heart as I once again walk into my back yard coffee in hand; alone.

I sit next to the palm tree that I planted just for you on your birthday. A birthday that I couldn’t celebrate with you this year, because you’re off to heaven without me. I’m ready for our morning chat.

I lose a tear as I stare at the tree that is now standing in the place of my big brother. My writing partner, my best friend. Chills fill my arms as I see a stranded pen near my feet. My bad dog I begin to think, bringing that out here through the doggy door.

Reaching down to pick it up, it looks so shiny and new. Hmmmmm- no bite marks- not my pen. It’s so beautiful and unharmed. The love of writing fills my heart, then sadness. I haven’t written one word without you since you died.

No one to share it with. No one to be proud of me. I look at the strong and healthy palm tree standing over me. The realization hit me. You’re still with me. I smiled, and I looked at the pen again - and it made me think of you.....