Editorial July 21, 1997 Issue

Dealing with desire

Mary Metzner Trammell

It was a kiss of tender, pure love. Our two elementary-school children looked on reverently. And so did all the other pool-side sunbathers who witnessed that unforgettably sweet moment when two hearts melted together.

Our family had been quietly observing this white-haired couple all week long during our vacation at Sanibel Island, off the coast of Florida. The wife was apparently recovering from a stroke. And it seemed obvious that the two had come to the small beachside inn for more than just the beautiful scenery. They'd come to recuperate. To be alone. And to make a new beginning in their life together.

Each morning and afternoon, this couple spent a few hours by the pool. They'd just sit in lounge chairs and watch the rest of us swim. From time to time the husband would tenderly brush a hair out of his wife's face or get her something cool to drink. Then, after a while, they'd leave—hand in hand.

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