being there

it's the kind of relationship

where you had to be there

if you weren't there then

you can't go there now

so much happened

eyewitnesses and participants both

we speak in half sentences

knowing what is meant

the reference point---fixed

constant in our minds and hearts

we know where we were on that boat

just before it went down

we were moving chairs and singing

when nothing else could help love lifted me

trying to save the ship passengers crew

but the captain was going

headlong for the berg

we made it to the shore

lived to tell the story

we are stronger for it

other ships and seas

are smooth sailing

compared to that voyage

these years later

meeting under the star

still singing John 3:16

we remember the ride

talking as good friends

should and do

with humor only survivors

can understand

our hearts go on

it's the kind of relationship

deep friendship

where you had to be there

and she was . . .

**************************

for Jacqueline

with profound appreciation

and abiding love, 11-21-10

Christie