I Didn’t Know…

By Keith Bettinger

I didn’t know how much I loved her until she didn’t hand me my cup of coffee.

I didn’t know how much I loved her until she played with the kids while I slept.

I didn’t know how much I loved her until she no one laughed at my jokes any more.

I didn’t know how much I loved her until I had to make dinner for the kids and me.

I didn’t know how much I loved her until I had to do the laundry.

I didn’t know how much I loved her until I had to sit through the school play.

I didn’t know how much I loved her until I had to attend an elementary school concert.

I didn’t know how much I loved her until I made a trip with a child to the emergency room.

I didn’t know how much I loved her until she squeezed my arm during a scary movie.

I didn’t know how much I loved her until she rescued an abused puppy from traffic.

I didn’t know how much I loved her until I brought home the little meowing kitten.

I didn’t know how much I loved her until she introduced me to her family and friends.

I didn’t know how much I loved her until I opened the Christmas gift I really wanted.

I didn’t know how much I loved her until she walked to meet me after work.

I didn’t know how much I loved her until she took me to meet the puppy she picked out for me.

I didn’t know how much I loved her until she helped me carry our self-cut Christmas tree.

I didn’t know how much I loved her until she told me the baby was a boy.

I didn’t know how much I loved her until her side of the bed grew cold.

I didn’t know how much I loved her until she wasn’t there.

I didn’t know…

About the Author

Keith Bettinger is a retired Suffolk County (N.Y.) Police Officer. He’s been writing for law enforcement publications for more than 35 years and has received 50 awards for his articles, stories, poems, and books. He has a Master’s Degree in Human Relations with a major in Clinical Counseling. During his career he received the department’s Bravery Medal, Silver Shield Award, Meritorious Police Service Award, Special Service Award, Professionalization Award, Department Recognition Award, five Headquarters commendations and six Precinct commendations. He also was a field training officer and an instructor on Post Shooting Trauma and Critical Incidents. Keith has written three books, FIGHTING CRIME WITH “SOME" DAY and LENNY, END OF WATCH and MURDER IN McHENRY.