The Table Turns, a poem
By: Karen O’Leary
She stares out the window,
trying to compose herself
and not let the tears spill.
The waiter says the two
wines were preordered
earlier by her husband
to celebrate their first
wedding anniversary.
Her surprise is the flowers,
designed to capture those
in her wedding bouquet.
He invited her to meet
him here a half hour ago.
She tastes her favorite
tea which is stale too.
Fifteen minutes later,
he saunters in. “Did
you eat?” She shakes
her head no. “Why not?”
She picks up her purse
before excuses pour out.
She exits letting him
smooth things with
the waiter this time.
###
Karen O’Leary is a writer and editor from West Fargo, ND. She has published poetry, short stories, and articles in a variety of venues including, Hedgerow, Haikuniverse, Frogpond, Setu, Fine Lines, Atlas Poetica and Quill & Parchment. Karen edited an international online journal called Whispers for 5 ½ years. She enjoys sharing the gift of words.
Dear Editor Sharma,
Thank you so much for publishing my poem. I hope that others find joy in sharing their words for journal.
Best wishes,
Karen
This is a sad, touching poem dealing with a person who has been let down; undoubtedly not the first time. I see a woman who has been taken for granted by a husband who appears to give more importance to other things than to her. Despite this, she turns out to be a woman of strength who handles the situation extremely well!
Thank you so much, Paul! Your encouraging words are greatly appreciated. Have a good day.