Pleased to share “Listening,” some new words of mine now live at Feminine Collective, an excellent literary publication featuring writers exploring “humanity, raw and unfiltered.” I hope you enjoy the read and can take some time to explore the many other fine contributors therein, connecting in some way, shape, or form
Founded over a decade ago by writer/model, Julie Anderson, Feminine Collective’s mission is “dedicated to empowering, enlightening, and entertaining its audience through the dissemination of distinctive stories, poetry, and prose that delve into the pressing issues confronting humanity in the contemporary world.” More relevant and necessary than ever, and thanks to Julie for keeping this creative community going. I’m grateful to be included.
https://www.femininecollective.com/listening/
“Listening” – Doug Hoekstra
“Eighty years old and still looking good,”
She says to me every time I come to volunteer.
I smile. She smiles back. Five minutes pass.
“Eighty years old and still looking good,”
She says. Again. I smirk. Eyes twinkle
Lightly. A chuckle. Ten minutes pass.
I circle around the room, returning to her table
Yogurt snacks and apples, folks drifting
In and out of sleep, repeating what they know
Holding on tight to what they once had.
Telling tales of their children and their cats
“Eighty years old and still looking good,”
I say to her, this time, with great excitement
She laughs and laughs and laughs
As if this is the funniest thing she has ever heard
Little does she know
It is the highlight of my week
Doug Hoekstra 