Sue Ellen Thompson: "Leaning In"

Sometimes, in the middle of a crowded store on a Saturday
afternoon, my husband will rest his hand
on my neck, or on the soft flesh belted at my waist,
and pull me to him. I understand

his question: Why are we so fortunate
when all around us, friends are falling prey
to divorce and illness? It seems intemperate
to celebrate in a more conspicuous way

so we just stand there, leaning in
to one another, until that moment
of sheer blessedness dissolves and our skin,
which has been touching, cools and relents,

settling back into our separate skeletons
as we head toward Housewares to resume our errands.

"Leaning In" by Sue Ellen Thompson, from The Golden Hour. © Autumn House Press, 2006.

Art credit: Detail of a photograph by Ovation Images Photography (originally color).