Heredity

I have a vivid memory of standing in the St. George Temple,

On the day I was to be married nearly 61 years ago,

Looking out the window and seeing this old lady

Walking towards the temple.

It was my Aunt Maggie.

My dad’s sister.

Mama wondered how she knew I was getting married

Daddy had died nine years before;

Not living in the same town

We hadn’t kept in touch with his sister.

The temple was closed for repairs.

We were getting married by appointment.

What I remember noticing

In that early morning

Was her bow legs.

Checking records,

She would have been 78 years old.

Whenever I see my image reflected in the glass doors

As I walk into the gym or the church

I see bow legs.

I didn’t know I was bow legged.

But I am.

And each and every time,

I see my image I think of Aunt Maggie

Walking to the temple

On my wedding day.