Walking back into my part time job from 'my life'

Shiela Branson

Walking back into my part time job from 'my life', I remember ... 

0ld familiar eyes lighting up in recognition; 

old familiar hands, some gnarled with arthritis, 

reaching out to grasp my hands, 

touch my face, 

hold my arm; 

old familiar faces wreathing in smiles; 

old familiar voices saying, 'Shiela!' 

and 'It's so good to see you!' 

and 'I love you.' 

and 'We've missed you.' 

And I say, 'I love you too,' 

while I smile and reach out for their hands. 

Some don't say a word 

but their tired old eyes speak volumes 

and their hand hugs are strong, tight, and prolonged. 

I love my people, 

all of them, 

and they know it.