My Grandma Louisa Abbruzzi,by Louise Annarino,1-18-2013
She brought me warm peaches
juicy pinks and yellow
from the fruit man’s cart –
just because I loved peaches.
She called me in from play
when my cousin tormented me
with threats of abandonment –
just because I needed acceptance.
She shared a nap with me
when no one would answer my questions
so she could tell me her stories –
just because I wanted to know.
She sang Neapolitan love songs
as I danced about the kitchen
on rainy days –
just because I needed to move.
She stroked my face
with hard, callused hands
worn rough tending ten children –
just because I needed soothing.
She grabbed my “rosie cheeks a la la”
and kissed me soundly,
painfully and laughingly –
just to make me giggle.
She dried my tears
with the hem
of her threadbare dress –
just because I treasured her comfort.
She spoke little English, but
she spoke the language of love.
I knew her only 8 short years.
I shall love her forever.
annarino writes 