Annie's Worried

Annie drops the children
off to school and takes a breath.
Another morning full of hustle
to get everything off scheduled.
Hiding her emotions from the kids.
With every step, Annie’s worried.
 
Annie keeps her smiles
for friends to see on book night.
Not saying a lot as she cannot focus
on the words of each page.
Faking laughs and enthusiasm.
She is hiding, Annie’s worried.
 
Anytime the parents or in-laws visit,
Annie plays the perfect host,
chatting away over coffee or tea.
Making sure visits are perfect.
Annie’s worried.
 
The sun goes down.
With a glass of wine, Annie thinks,
mind full of never-ending thoughts
that cannot be shared.
Uncertain who would understand.
Annie’s worried.
 
Annie thinks of her partner in crime,
who is away as a peacekeeper
for another four to five months.
It is supposed to be safe
however, she feels the stress
in his voice when he calls.
 
The news is only showing disaster
in those parts of the world.
Annie sees it all and waits
for the day he comes home safely.
 
Annie is strong and holding the emotions at bay.
Annie’s worried.
 
February 16, 2024
©Andrew Scott – Just a Maritime Boy 2024