Spooning Over Six Decades
Over six decades ago, from the very
start of our marriage, we slept spoon fashion. It mattered not who was in the
front or in the rear, and if and when we would turn and change position, the
spoon configuration would be maintained.
When Edythe was in the front or lead position, I would have my arms
around her. My subconscious enhanced
the feelings I had of protection and possession of my love. Her feelings may have been similar but since
each of us is unique, like fingerprints, we have our own opinions and secret
cache of personal feelings. With her in my arms after the birth of each child,
my dreams, aspirations and devotions increased and intensified.
Spooning distance between us varied
with the seasons. On summer nights there was less contact and some physical
separation. On the very torpid nights
we lay coverless and bare. With artless candor I let my eyes ravish her
nakedness. With vanity and vice I would stare and gasp at the phantom of
delight that inspired me and helped raise our family. At times I make inspiring
remarks, or whisper uninhibited praise. I know she hears and covertly enjoys
the accolades, but with affected indifference she pretends to ignore me. Victory and conquest awaits mutual response
and participation. While the passage of
time and the absolutely irrevocable aging conditions may stem frequency, it
does not eradicate our emotions and passion.
In cold weather, under layers of
covers our spooning and physical contact is closer. Our body heat adds to our warmth and comfort. In absorbed reverie I reminisce and retrace
our journey of trials and tribulations, achievements and happiness, through six
decades of togetherness. I am not
afraid of dying as I am of being detached and alone, buried in solitude without
her. More often now, with a hush of
suspense, I intensely listen for the sound of her breathing, and I sigh with
satisfaction when I am assured that my Edythe, my enigma of life, is alive.
.