Floating in a sea of her own perspiration,
she clutches the bed sheets like a life preserver.
Vacant is her stare, a weapon of every ache and pain
ingrained in her broken heart.
Showing little life; her eyes clench
closed to the world of familiarity,
a similarity to the other residents
who have found themselves left
to languish in lassitude.
Aunt Jane appears to be asleep,
tears seem to weep through her slumber.
The touch of a tender hand is all
that stands between life and the abyss.
A gentle kiss on a timeworn cheek
eyes flutter to a bleary peek
at the face inches from hers.
“How are you Aunt Jane?”
Her tired eyes smile briefly.
“Better” she whispers,
turning to her pillow with a sigh.
In that moment, she found recognition.
In her condition, it was more that I had hoped.
You don’t care that you’ve been forgotten.
You embrace that brief flash of lucidity
and accept that life still caresses her heart.
Walt
Oh, Walt. Your moving description of your aunt, her condition, and this tender moment in time touch my heart. May God hold Aunt Jane close, and allow her to feel His heartbeat. My heart goes out to you.
ReplyDeleteI concur with Marie Elena about these "moving" words that, sadly, reminded me of another "Aunt".
ReplyDeleteWalt, you have captured the personhood of your "Aunt Jane" for all.
Patricia
My friend, I'm sorry to hear of your loss. I remember this loving tribute very well. She lingered longer, it seems, than one would anticipate in her condition. Bless her heart, and may she rest well against the chest of her creator. My best to your family, Walt.
ReplyDelete(((hugs))) and love to you and family at this sad time. XX
ReplyDeleteMy deepest sympathy to you and your family.
ReplyDeleteWalt~ Beautiful, heartfelt piece of a moment captured in time, recorded not only on paper but in your memory where she'll live on forever.
ReplyDeleteSo sorry to hear about the loss of your aunt.
Walt - I am so sorry to hear about your loss. (((Hugs)))
ReplyDeleteExquisite tribute for your Aunt Jane whom you brought to life for us all again and again. She will be remembered.
ReplyDeleteIn sympathy for your loss and celebration for the love that you knew, and shared...
Walt, a beautiful tribute poem to your Aunt Jane. Accept our condolences on her passing.
ReplyDeleteSal and Sharon Buttaci
Walt, just wanted to express my condolences again on the passing of your aunt. This is a difficult time. Know that you are loved and lifted up by many. de.
ReplyDeleteWalt this is such a beautiful expression of your love for your aunt. It captures the angst of her condition and shows the love you felt for her. I am so sorry you lost her. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
ReplyDeleteWalt, you gave me goosebumps--I am very sorry for your loss, and very grateful for your gift of poetry, it was truly lovely--a very fitting tribute. My thoughts are prayers are with you and your family.
ReplyDelete