The train is calling you with his boisterous billows of steam
and you must depart from where I stand
clutching your suitcase, holding back any tears from falling
I'm trying to be that brave girl you say I am.

You look in my eyes as you pass your luggage
as it boards the tooting and whistling train
seeing the anguish in my face, you hold me close
so softly, whispering my name.

With a kiss upon my lips and forehead you start to speak those fateful words
but I place my finger on your mouth and stop you as my heart is stirred.

'Shh.. please don't say goodbye, my Love
just tell me that you love me so
and I'll hold you tenderly in my dreams
until that day when you come home..'

With a wink, nod and a smile, you placed your hat upon your head
and salute me with a soldier's honor as you jump upon the moving step.
Waving from the passing train, your figure slowly dims from sight
blending in with smoke and rain, I walked on home alone that night..

11/30/2000

Author's Note: re-titled

Posted on 12/18/2002
Copyright © 2025 Melissa Arel