Karen Daniels (14 Feb. 2005)

Antique Lace

Handkerchiefs, scarves, costume jewelry.

Richly framed portraits of a 50’s debutante.

Carefully preserved lace--remembrances of past revelry.

The softly lingering, almost sensuous scent

that permeates clothing, carefully chosen, once cherished

Insufficient representations of a woman;

a daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend.

Incessant vibrancy, delicate elegance.

Courage found in religious conviction

and the never ebbing devotion of my father.

Favorite recipes inadequately prepared at holidays.

Family celebrations lacking luster taken for granted

in wonderfully carefree cozy childhoods.

A life relegated to antiquated articles, cherished

and blended perpetually with tender memories of our mother.

link to Mary Kay as respondent