Strange New Reality

By Dominique Scott

I just got back into town for vacation and I decided to go see my grandad... He's been keeping to himself even since we lost grandma two years ago. Everyone haven't been coming around like they used to... When she was alive and they have no idea how heart breaking it is to grandad. He has to live in this home that he shared with his wife for years and now it's quiet. Nobody to cook, dance, fight, or garden with anymore. I pulled into the driveway to see him on the porch with his new dog Rocket. I get out the car to see his face brighten up but you can still see the sadness in his eyes. "Hey Pop!" I hugged him tight, "Welcome home." I helped him around the house and did a few things she would have done if she was still here. I even made their favorite dinner which made him happy. He spent hours remembering her last few days and then talked about how they first met. He cried a bit and I ended up spending my vacation with him, trying to be strong around him but I also had a few breakdowns when going through pictures and her things. He told me to take whatever I want of hers..

It was sunday dinner, Everyone was leaving and Pop was sitting on the porch saying bye to everyone, I sat down beside him to see a tear rolling down his face. I didn't alarm anyone and waited for everyone to leave, "What's wrong Pop?" "Just thinking." "About grandma?" "People don't understand when everyone leaves and the house is quiet... I don't hear her roaming around in the kitchen or basement with the laundry. The house is just too quiet and..." I wrap my arms around him as he pats me. "It's okay sweetie." I look at him, "We all miss her and its unfair. I see you go off by yourself sometimes just looking up at the sky and let a few tears fall." I felt a lump in my throat, "We get so caught up in life that we forget to come by and just spend time with you. Even if it's in silence... We get frustrated with you so easily but it's not right." He smiles abit, "I'm a stubborn old man sweetie." We sat on the porch watching the sunset before he hugs me goodnight and heads to bed. I stand on the porch for abit longer thinking about her... Gosh do I hate this strange reality without her...

By Dominique Scott