Who Decided?

It was once

 a peaceful day, a family day.

It was togetherness.

 

We loved the smells,

the delicious conversation.

We enjoyed each other.

 

We once gave thanks.

And counted our

gifts, our blessings.

 

Who decided?

Who chose commerce

over family?

 

The feast,

once unhurried,

is now gobbled.

 

The conversation,

once delightful,

is now hushed.

 

And I am Alone

with the mess

and the silence.

 

 

Hurry shoppers!

You may save

 a dollar or two.

 

In exchange

For mere conversation

And precious connections.

 

 

Linda Garner