Concurso de Arte y Escritura #82 y Ganadores de la Edición #81/ Art and Writing Contest #82

Waterloo Dogs Playing Poker, a oil painting made by Cassius Marcellus Coolidge in 1906 for an oil company.

This particular image brings to mind the pure and relatable memories of old time friends bonding and having fun. The painting might be of dogs but it gives off a more humane and sincere feeling.

Image from contest original post

The Company of One's Allies

After a day's work,
After juggling under the burning sun,
After being drenched by an heavenly pour,
After being scolded by one's companion and knowing no other place to resign,
But the company of one's allies.

It wasn't really about the structure of the building.
Neither was it the refreshing smell floating in the air.
Nor was it the chattering and jokes
No, it wasn't actually poker, it was something more.
The company of one's allies.

Yes, the bets and the cards was fun.
Indeed, the jokes and the taunts resonated just well.
Victory too was fun and sure once in awhile.
Let's not leave the refreshments out, it won't be complete without them.
Yet funny enough, it wasn't about all these but more of the company of one's allies.

That was the extra and most important touch, the company of one's allies.
We were no aristocrats, infact we were struggling with our waterloo.
Our initiative wasn't connection or sycophancy, it was pure.
At that table, a man was only made superior by his cards and skills.
It was all about being in the company of one's allies.

A group of friends chattering.
A drink in hands and cards being shuffled.
Sharing stories of the day's event or mocking a past incident.
Bragging and boasting of one's skills and intellect.
These are memories that would always remain with us.
The memories made in the company of one's allies.

Thank you very much for taking time to read through.