What I Once Called Love: The Drafts

Umbrella

There were times I wondered if you were in the room when God set the forecast of our lives.

On days of blue skies and sunshine, your shoulder would nudge mine as we traded teasing remarks in the hallways of our school. Frowning was not an option as you constantly reminded me of how beautiful life was, citing the little joys you'd experienced since knowing me. Life felt a little brighter when you were around.

When clouds of grey covered the area, you took notice of how my smile faltered. You never pushed me to tell you everything, but you made yourself available on the off chance I might reveal some of what broke my brave face. The few times I accepted your offer, you listened to my worries and fears without interrupting. I felt heard.

As the rain would pour out down on our heads, you could see the scars of my home life. You knew there were some wars fought in silence, but you promised that I would never have to fight alone; you would be there, sword in hand, if I asked. I trusted you and your word, filing your alliance away in the back of my mind. I wondered how long it would last.

With the sunshine, you were there with a smile as you walked beside me. On clouded day, you tuned your ears to my voice as our feet thudded against the pavement. And on the rainy days, you carried umbrella. It was like you knew what I needed even before I did.

Maybe God knew how much I needed it.