Empty Chair

Even as great things are happening, there is always a fly in the ointment- something that is not right, doesn't fit. Through the blessing of upcoming graduation, thoughts come to me of those who will not be there to see- who didn't make it to see my accomplishment. An empty chair remains where he should be seated and smiling, a vacancy permeates even the best of things, causing my soul to almost have to catch a breath. Then I think of other things I have prayed for: a wife, a family of my own, joyous things . . . and again the empty chair. Perhaps if I had finished all of this sooner . . . but everything happens for a reason, I suppose. It doesn't stop my mind's eye from looking beyond the many smiles, and seeing the one not there . . . to that grievous empty chair.