War Time Photograph

My father’s face
set on strong shoulders
that supported his smile;
his broad beaming smile
is how I remember my Dad
‘Happy Johnny’….

This photograph of a young man
on his way to war
looks more like my son than my dad
and I feel so grateful for the love they shared;
their deep connection.

As I look into his deep eyes
I’m penetrated by an intense gaze ….
left wondering what he was thinking,
what emotions were swirling around in his soul
on that day?

His crew cut hair lighter than I remember
His chiseled chin
his high collared uniform
looks rough….
-it must have been rough for him to leave his loved ones behind….
-was hard when he left me behind
but I know our lives will be linked again one day.

—
Brenda.ps23©