How Many Times

When I woke I thought of you—
Imagining that you thought of me too
Brought a smile to start my day.
As I packed lunches
I thought of you.
Driving kids to school
I thought of you.
While explaining mortgages
To a questioning boy
I beamed again
Because of you.
As I waited at his appointment
Paying bills
I paused, with thoughts of you.
Hearing music, reading,
You popped into my mind…
Repeatedly…
With hopes you’re doing well.
As I ate my meals
Imagining you was my truer satisfaction.
As water drops cascaded
I was transported
To you.
When I heard your calming voice
in my waking dreams
I thought again and again
Of you.
How many times?
As many as the steps in my day
And breaths in my night
That’s how many times
You come to mind,
That’s how many times
I miss you every day.