Holding Hands

It's the memories - and the losses - that haunt us as we grow older.

One of the things I miss the most is taking a walk with my husband. We always held hands as we wandered the neighborhood on an evening stroll. We met up with people on the other side of the block or down the street, stopping to chat, still holding hands. Friends noticed, sometimes teasing, sometime envying us.

Even now, after 26 years alone, when a couple passes by, swinging hands, I am tempted to catch up with them, take the gentleman's free hand, and continue the walk, holding hands.

I wonder what they would do.