Common Bonds

Everywhere I go, I see someone I think I know.

Whispers of the past materialize in the many faces of humanity.

Familiarity resides in the faces of those I see.

Though one thousand miles from home…

On an aspen-covered hillside, the golden fall coming through my door…

I swear, I’ve seen you before.

As I glance across the room in the heavy, shaded gloom…

Of the dimly lit restaurant,

I think I know you. I identify with your existence,

Of the many joys, your dissapointments, the strife…

Your magnificent, awesome life.

The smell of home-cooked food permeates the air,

And suddenly…I become aware.

You look at me from across the room, with understanding,

And I am almost sure that I have seen you before.

The beauty of the lines that crease your hands,

The sweat that forms above your brow.

As we look at each other, questioning.

Have I seen you on a busy, crowded street,

Or on a snow-covered mountain retreat.

Traces of footsteps floating amidst the pines,

Deep, snowy footprints forming jagged, crusty lines.

I really can’t explain how…

But, I know for sure I’ve seen you now.

Walking this complicated road of life,

We’re so different, yet the same.

Forked, winding paths, Some of the same fears.

Living through joys, sorrows, and tears.

Wondering…how many years.

Will we make a difference on this battered planet where we live.

Will we ever learn to give.

Shall we go through life with indifference on our faces.

Let’s make a difference while we have a chance.

Let’s live, and love, and laugh, and dance.

Let’s exist until we can’t.

There’s no more room for regrets.

They will not another day get.

Don’t let despair ever get in the way,

And live as if all of our tomorrows are brand new todays.

Catherine M. Howell

10/8/07