Changing Tables

Straining, Herb still could not hear me.

Voices from the adjoining table

Overwhelmed his limited faculty.

Why were those people so loud?

And why, in an almost empty, restaurant

Were we put at this table?

Frustrated, he motioned for the waiter,

Asking that we be moved.

When relocated to a quiet, adjoining room,

Herb was able to hear enough of our conversation

To re-engage and so remain part of our foursome.

He showed bravery, overcoming his natural reluctance

To remain quiet and frustrated.

Were we three at ease when Herb was excluded from the conversation?

Were we content allowing him to be left in isolation ?

Were we 15 year olds expressing a preference

That the weakest of us be discouraged 

From having a place at the table?

Or are these the wrong questions?

Ruth and Diana had settled into conversation.

It was my responsibility to engage Herb.

Was I looking out for him, or just a way out?