The Finest Dance Poem by Robert Charles Howard

For Betty and Clarrie

Betty was in paradise -
a soft smile on her angel face
eyes closed - gently swaying
with every note and word,

      “It’s very clear, our love is here to stay, ”

but why had she come today of all days
without her man to share the dance?

Then the usher parted the ballroom doors
and a humble and cheerful man slipped inside
barely noticing the familiar lyric,

      “Not for a year, but ever and a day...”

Clarrie searched the room and found her
as he knew he would
then crossed to offer his hand
in invitation to the dance.
His bride rose in acceptance
and they glided across the floor
while saxes crooned over bass and brushes –
her head resting gently on his shoulder
where it will always remain.

      “The Rockies may crumble, Gibralter may tumble,
      they’re only made of clay…”

The usher lingered for a moment
to celebrate the beauty of their song
then slipped away in a cloud
to return to his station
at the gateway to forever.

June, 2008