Together they had forged a life –
Raised three children as best they could –
The years had times of woe and strife
But all in all, most times were good.
Now his sight has dimmed, but his love has not
And he felt their life would start anew
And he went to bed with this comforting thought
But awoke to a future gone askew.
His lifelong mate had been struck down
There wasn't the least forewarning clue
She's in a hospital far from town
And there is nothing now that he can do.
Their old life has now been lost
Their home is but an empty shelf
He too rests his head
On a hospital bed
Praying that soon she will be well.
In moments of fancy he's driving a ball
Onto a beloved golf course green
In her fanciful moments she's standing tall
And painting a lovely verdant scene.
Their world once traveled in single orbit
Now double ..., Hope asks for overlaps
With all that they have had to forfeit
Fate answers softly "perhaps, perhaps ..."
2003
(from the book Discoveries In The Dark by Doris Potter)
© Doris Potter
Aw. I know these people — and you too.
ReplyDeleteYes, Mum talked of you often and I'm sure Dad knew you as well but he was always so busy with work. I'm glad they had a long, happy retirement out west.
Deletemessymimi wrote: "You make me feel their hope and pain." Thank you messymimi.
ReplyDeleteWe must live in the present moment for we know not what the future holds. Thankfully they celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary while being together in the same nursing home room.
ReplyDeleteVery true!
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