Author - A. Maddox

Lineman's Choice

Where is he now?

Dinner is on the stove done,

And he should've been home.

I guess he couldn't phone.

A storm came through this mornin'

With wind, ice, snow, and sleet.

He must still be at work,

With all of his duties to meet.

Our electricity is fine,

But somewhere it must be off.

I guess I should've known.

After all, I'm a lineman's wife.

I feed the baby dinner,

Then sit alone once more.

I sure miss him now.

We usually share this chore.

The baby is in jammies,

And ready for her goodnight kiss.

Me and Teddy aren't enough.

She wants to know where Daddy is.

I know he loves his job,

But this is growing old.

I can't think of anything,

'Cept him out in the cold.

Is he wearing hooks and belt

Climbing up on a pole?

Or is it a problem with underground

Somewhere in a water-filled hole?

His job is so dangerous.

I hope he is all right.

I pray there won't be

Any problems tonight.

He finishes the job.

It's already four.

He tries to sneak in,

But I hear his key in the door.

With sudden and complete relief,

I lean into his embrace.

He tells me of his night,

Sounds like he just ran a race.

His breathing is fast,

And there is excitement in his voice.

Now I'm glad I'm a lineman's wife.

I understand why he made this choice.

A. Maddox

lineman's wife