Editor’s note: With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, we are reminded about the preciousness of love – and how love means something different to each one of us. We asked members of the WhipCity Wordsmiths to share their thoughts on love – and as always – their submissions are thought-provoking, eloquent, and in many cases, personal. Our series today features Robert Thompson of Westfield.
WESTFIELD-While Robert Thompson has concentrated his writing on children’s and young adult novels, he has also written poetry for his wife Louise, known affectionately as “Lou,” for a “long time.”
“I usually write her several during the course of a year, her birthday, our anniversary, Valentine’s Day, and other special days,” said Thompson.
Thompson said that in 2016, when the couple would be celebrating their 50th anniversary, he wanted to create a “special surprise” for Louise.
Louise and Robert Thompson on their 50th wedding anniversary – July 22, 2016. (SUBMITTED PHOTO)
“By that time I had published several books and had a good relationship with the publisher,” he said. “I contacted them and asked if they would publish a one time book for me, they said yes.”
What transpired was Thompson compiling all of the poems and letters he had written to Louise over the years into a book titled “Across Time – Poetry for My Love.”
Not surprisingly, there were 50 pages in the book and each poem was surrounded by yellow roses – Louise’s favorite.
“They printed it for me and I received it in time to give it to her on our anniversary date,” said Thompson.
The submission by Thompson is titled “The Dance,” one of many poems in Louise’s book.
“The Dance”
It was way back in the summer of 65
We were both much younger,
And ready to live our lives.
At a party for a cousin and friend,
Don’t ask me now to explain just when.
By happenstance, I decided to take that chance,
And ask you if you would like to dance.
Our first time to take the floor,
“A Summer Place” and so many more.
We danced a long time that night,
And before the next night came again,
I knew the girl for whom my life began.
Now 55 years have come and gone,
And we have danced to a million songs.
Our life has made me glad I took the chance,
And asked you for that very first dance.
Thompson said when he gave Louise the book, her reply was “You were always the romantic, and that is what drew me to you in the first place!”
As the COVID-19 pandemic raged last year, Thompson said he decided to write their entire love story in chapters – and post on Facebook – as a surprise to Louise on their anniversary.
“We were bored staying in and looking for something different to do,” said Thompson. “They were our thoughts as to the best of our memories.”
Louise and Robert Thompson on their wedding day – July 22, 1966. (SUBMITTED PHOTO)
The following is the last chapter excerpt that he shares with our readers.
Lou and Bob
Damn, wake up, Bob, you’re getting married today! Spit shine the shoes and the bill of your hat! Make sure that rope is fastened on your shoulder just right and all creases are ramrod straight. You need to look as good as possible because you know she will. Relax man, you’re as nervous as a moonshiner with a mountain full of Feds! How can I not be, I’m getting married today to the most beautiful, intelligent and sweetest girl in the world, why God blessed me with her I don’t know, but thank you God!
I haven’t seen the dress she chose, because she made it herself, did I mention that is another of her fantastic talents, an outstanding seamstress. Okay, uniform is all set, time for breakfast and then clean the car. The chariot must be fit for this queen, at least it is her favorite color! I can’t eat, just another cup of coffee, mom. Can you explain how I got this lucky! Okay, car is done, you still have several hours before you meet your best man, Bill Reed, at the First Congregational Church down on the green.
Okay, it’s time! You look pretty sharp Airman, ring is in your pocket, envelope for the minister. Everything will go smooth, just like last night’s rehearsal! Okay, here we are, good to see you Billy, here’s the ring, don’t lose it man. People are filing in, the Chapel is filling up. What’s that, it’s time, time for what, oh, that’s right, I have to go up front and wait for her entry! Okay, Billy, let’s go do this!
Music is starting, oh my God, there is an Angel in white walking toward me, absolutely beautiful, and in a few minutes she will be my wife! I wish her father could have been here, thank you, Mr. William Drescher, you have a fantastic daughter. I have a lot to live up to man, and even more to live for!! This is going to be one hell of a ride!
It has been all of that and more, 55 years together my love, 54 as my wife. We have had our ups and downs, raised a family and traveled the world, and you are as beautiful today as ever. Come join me now on the rest of the adventure, we start today in Newport, RI. I’ll love you forever!
Thompson noted that he continues to write poetry for Louise.
“I am working on the next 50,” he said.
