by Cheryl Batavia

Walking Hand-in-Hand

Photo by Roman Kraft from Unsplash

Walking Hand-in-Hand

Walking hand-in-hand…

Even a short stroll with you

means the world to me!

Copyright© 2025 by Cheryl Batavia

Robert’s 2024 Birthday Poem

Last September, recently discharged from the hospital and recovering from quintuple bypass heart surgery, I had very limited energy. Robert’s birthday was in a few days. I always write poems and make cards for him for his birthday and Valentine’s Day. “Well, I think I can write a haiku, at least!” I decided.

My recovery includes a daily walking program. Because of Robert’s COPD, post-polio, heart problems, and other issues, Robert can now only walk short distances. Many times he walks a short way with me, and I continue the walk on my own.

Having Robert walk with me brings me happiness and encouragement. This is the poem I wrote for Robert’s birthday and printed out on white copy paper…no handmade card this time. I put it on his computer keyboard where he would find it when he woke.

I was hospitalized again in November to stent two of the grafts that had become blocked. By Valentine’s Day, though, a longer poem and a handmade card were back! Robert keeps all of the cards I make in his office. He even kept this haiku printed out on plain white paper…and I keep all the cards he has ever given me!

57 Comments

  1. Unknown's avatar

    Hi Cheryl!🖐🏼😃

    This haiku can set a standard for human relationships. We are companions to eachother’s life.

    Can write a long comment, but I don’t want to.
    I feel like your poem is guiding me to come into the meditation state (not bored, not sa, not panicked, stable & focused).

    I’m good. My health is good. At present I’m reading more blogs on Wp compares to my syllabus books.
    I realised I need to get answers of some of my questions related to life. I was able to find some meaningful posts in that context.

    Wishing you & Robert good health!✨✨
    Peace to you both!🤍💙💙

    Keep writing!✍🏼 (I remember, I have to check your posts.)

    Liked by 1 person

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    1. Unknown's avatar

      Thank you, Joanna, for your good wishes. We are OK, enjoying the spring sunshine and finding happiness in everyday life. We watch movies, discuss current events, and play Scrabble. Robert likes fixing things around the house, playing poker online, watching backyard wildlife, and joking around to make me laugh.

      I hope you are enjoying spring in your lovely garden. Have a great week! 💕🌹💕

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    1. Unknown's avatar

      Thanks so much for your kind words, Violet! 💕🌹💕Robert is not really a poetry person. His interests are in science, history, and finance. But I know he does appreciate the poems I write for him. 😄

      Have a great week! Hope you are enjoying the longer days of spring! 🌞

      Liked by 1 person

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  4. Unknown's avatar

    Knowing the story behind this poem has touched my heart. I’m sorry for all the battles you two have faced with your health, Cheryl. This poem is woven with love and kindness. May God’s peace and love be upon you. May his healing locate you.

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  14. Unknown's avatar

    This is a beautiful share, dear Cheryl. Every moment spent with someone you care like this is memorable.
    I’m so sure Robert loves these notes you make for him. No matter the condition. The effort is what is appreciated. I’m sure. Be well, lovely friend. All is fine with the world if you are here. A truckload of blessings.

    Liked by 1 person

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    1. Unknown's avatar

      Thank you for your beautiful comment and good wishes, Selma. I feel very fortunate to be alive and to have Robert in my life.

      How your husband and family must cherish you for your generous and loving spirit!

      Much love! 💖

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  15. Unknown's avatar

    A beautiful poem reminding us that even small moments can mean the world. I wish you and Robert a strong and continuing recovery with many wonderful moments.

    Liked by 1 person

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  17. Unknown's avatar

    What a beautiful, touching sentiment, Cheryl! I’m truly delighted to witness the deep love you and Robert share. So simple, but profoundly meaningful! You are truly made for each other. Wishing you both a lifetime of happiness together. Cherish and take care of your heart, Cheryl- it has so much love and warmth to give to Robert.🙏💐🌹❤️

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    1. Unknown's avatar

      Thank you, Cindy, for your kind and perceptive comment! Yes, touch is comforting. I am very lucky to have Robert walkng hand-in-hand through life with me! 💕🍀💕

      My late husband and I, when we were adopting our two younger children, were terrified to hear stories of babies in orphanages failing to thrive because they had no one to hold them.💔 Fortunately, our children had received adequate affection and touch in early life.

      I am also thinking of stories of older people in nursing homes who never get any visitors. I hope cuts in Medicare and Medicaid do not adversely affect the most vulnerable among us: people with disabilities, children in the foster care system, and elderly people who are no longer able to care for themselves.

      You are very fortunate to be part of a loving family, and they are truly blessed to have you! 💐 I hope you are having wonderful day. Take care!

      Liked by 1 person

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      1. Unknown's avatar

        You’re so very welcome, Cheryl. It is truly a gift and those stories are chilling in orphanages and how wonderful you created a source of love and caring.
        I too shudder to think about these costs being cut. We need them more than ever.
        Yes, I do feel grateful for that absolutely. hugs nd love and you have a great weekend! 💗

        Liked by 1 person

      1. Unknown's avatar

        Thank you for asking, Kritika. 💕I am dealing with high blood sugar and low thyroid since my illness, trying to resolve the issues with diet and without taking prescription medications. Robert has health issues too, but we are managing fairly well.

        My daughters will be here for Easter, and we are going on a road trip to the Everglades and the Keys. I am looking forward to it and will post about the trip when we return.🦩

        I have a new book coming out in a few weeks.

        I will welcome news from you whenever! 🌼🌺🌼

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