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The Power of We


10.26.13 Posted in today's words by

Jeanette Gallagher opens our eyes to the power of language.

The Power of We
By Jeanette Gallagher

When I lose my husband
I lose what was we;
That changes to I.
Other couples continue the use
Of we without awareness
Of how the contrast cuts.
When friends invite me
To join them for a movie or
Dinner I decline.
I know I will feel the jolt
Of words that take my breath.
Married friends use us as well.
There is no us in my widowed world.
Let us know when to visit or what we can do.
They do not recognize the words are taboo.
To choose a birthday card to a son is agony:
Happy Birthday to Our Son shouts in neon.
I am the mother of two wounded sons.
I find a card to My Son, pay Hallmark, and escape.
My acute awareness of the We, the Us, the Our,
Small words, lonely words, cruel words
Will eventually lose their power and I will be whole again.

 



5 Responses to “The Power of We”

  1. Jean says:

    Oh, Jeanette, once again your words ring true–and straight to my pierced heart.

    Thank you so much for sharing your poem. It will affect many people.

  2. Pam says:

    Sorrowful and sad and a wonderful poem.

  3. Sharon Poch says:

    Jeanette,
    What Power You GiveTo A Simple Two Letter Pronoun! And I Will Always Hear Your WordsWhenever Someone Says “WE”…
    Sharon

  4. You are so strong. This heartfelt poem makes me love you even more.

  5. Jeanette Gallagher says:

    Please accept my sincere thanks for your very kind words about my poem. I am humbled by your comments. Most grateful to Jean, Pam, Sharon, and Jeanette. Just saw your responses today,
    Nov. 6, 2013! Thank you, thank you!
    Love,
    Jeanette

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