Sandra's Anniversary Poem

Living With Nate for 27 Years

Before we were married someone said, “Being with you is like being with a crowd.”

Perhaps I can describe some various aspects of the crowd who is you.

Keep in mind, the sum of your parts is never as great as the whole of you.

Living with you is like floating on water over a sun-dappled coral reef.

Many colorful creatures live there and I never know what will emerge next.

But if I swim in these waters often, I know this peaceful world is safe.

Living with you is like eating fried oysters with Mornay sauce and a dill pickle.

Oysters are one of the earth’s most nutritious creatures.

The fried part with Mornay sauce and dill pickle make the eating fun.

Living with you is like reading three books at one time. Literally.

You relate each book to me as passages appeal to you.

When you complete them, I have absorbed their value. My own reading languishes

.

Living with you is like reliving your life before marriage to me.

Each story is a jewel with different facets to be explored.

I never know what the light of your awareness will illuminate this time.

Living with you is like having a pornographic magazine under the bed.

Being teased with glimpses makes me curious about what is in there

But I’m not sure I want to experience the images of your imagination.

Living with you is like continuous Christmas and birthdays.

You give me everything I ask for, although I am careful about what I want.

But when I risk having more, you are there with a soul of generosity.

Living with you is like having a mother, father, and brother.

You nurture me as I need it; you lecture and cajole when I don’t want it.

You play with me—often tenderly, sometimes rough.

Living with you...I cannot express how fortunate I have been for 27 years.

From your loving wife and babe,

Sandra