Today’s poem

MOVING

I stepped inside the terrace house To have a look around, ‘For Sale’ was the sign that greeted me — I’d been told it was ‘tumbledown’. It certainly needed many repairs From its tiled, dated hearth To the absence of a shower — Just a chipped cast-iron bath. But as I stood there looking around At the wallpaper dull and worn, The photographs that hung there Made me feel quite warm. I saw a man in a uniform With medals on his chest, Looking young and handsome, At his ceremonial best. Then I saw another shot Of a lady with this man, With a church in the background And a bouquet in her hand. As my eyes skimmed round the walls I saw a tiny baby, Held so very carefully And gently by this lady. The next frame held a little child Looking more grown-up, Scooting on a scooter And watched on by a pup. Then the same girl stared at me, Looking now much older, Smiling in her uniform For her primary school photo. From school to university The story led me on To her now holding a baby In blue, must be her son. As I looked around the room I really enjoyed the sight, As it told to me a story — A pictorial delight. But then above the fireplace Cards of sympathy Which brought me to a grinding halt With heartfelt empathy. I felt a bit invasive As it was plain to see That the people who once lived here Were a close-knit family. It fitted the description of ‘A lovely family home’ As I felt their presence all around Whilst standing there alone. Just then the agent rang me Saying: ‘I know it isn’t nice’, But I answered ‘I love it and I’m offering The full asking price’.

Sheila Webb, Chesham, Bucks.

...and Limerick

When losing a set in despair At tennis it’s wise to take care, And best not to shy A ball at the eye Of that fellow in the high chair.

robert Ben-Nathan, Denham, Bucks