Letters From Servicemen

He wrote how he remembered the happy times and the USO dances.

He wrote about feeling lonely despite being in the constant company of men.

He wrote to apologize for bringing her home so late that one time.

He wrote that things were better then than he could ever have expected.

He wrote he'd come back and take her to Times Square and Rockefeller Center.

He wrote how he had been happiest in the sun on the beach at Narragansett.

He wrote that things were getting much worse but wasn't allowed to say how.

He wrote: remember me.

She recalled a setting with silver tableware and linen napkins.

She recalled the shivery sensation when she first wore nylon stockings.

She recalled the big band music and happy bustle at the Providence USO.

She recalled digging her toes in the wet sand where the waves sank in.

I have been reading old letters.

I have searched for the girl who became my mother.

I have learned how easily things could have been different.