Beloved Market Days
They came from Hungary 1956 time of troubles Erik and Maria Childless. Kitchener the target Couple of friends there. Lots of German, Austrian, Slav. Lots of jobs Healthy primary production. Canada, the peacekeepers Liberators and moderates. The two met Julius. Julius Jaeger (Danish). He hosted the meats counter Farmers' Market. Happy to take on Some obliging new hands. And how they learned. And how they triumphed.
Children always getting
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Special attention, treats. Maria insisted With her big smiles And voice of comfort. Specially for little ones Lost from parents perhaps For a short while. In the crowded jumble. The "Little Wooden Chair" Waiting. With Maria, their solace. (Remembered years later Happily, by kids grown.)
Then came the tainted Hepatitis Blood Scare. She was a "bleeder". She contracted, she declined. Hospital bedside. Erik diligent in dividing Himself between Shop And St. Mary's. Had been the owner-operator. Until Maria...Gone...
He comes alone These days from apartment Contemplative bus journey. Retired, but on the Go. Old black mesh shopping bag The cheeses, grapes, sausage Honey and strong coffee. Perhaps a couple of His Countrymen. Who talk about that Land, glorious land, left. And Canada And Kitchener Their sweet Home of Reward. And Privilege. And Plenty.
Erik always brings Life Saver Candies For the Little Ones. Met at random. Just like his Maria.