Dementia

Dementia is a generic term used to identify various diseases of the brain including Alzheimer's. My father has it and this is a sort of tribute/catharsis for him and I.

You learned to play Chess

when I was eight.

I taught you the moves

and never again won.

You taught me so many things;

holding a gun with quiet aim,

pedaling with skinned knee,

 to listen for Smoky baying at rabbits.

Your mind was your prize

along with your faith.

Both so strong, determined

I wondered how I could ever match up.

You showed me love

by sleeping while I flew.

Engine roaring, props churning

You showed me trust.

You never mentioned my fear

as we climbed towards the sun

and you cut the engines

turning plane into roller coaster.

Fearless, you drove, you flew

You believed, you focused.

No problem could stand

when your formidable mind took it.

You taught yourself 

the language of machines,

writing logical instructions

creating structured beauty from radio signals.

Such a sharp mind

and a gentle soul.

I don't understand.

My sadness turns in my gut.

Your mind was your prize

second only to your faith.

Do the ruins of that once sharp steel

know what is gone, taken from you?

As you sit so quiet

on your narrow assigned bed

I feel a keen sadness,

pondering what you have lost.

I pray to the great 

Power in the Universe

that is, was, and will always be

that I feel it more than you do.

Reviews

[emmajoy]

This is the most wonderful tribute to your darling dad .. a gentle, sincere and grateful piece that is far, far more than a post to be reviewed on a writers' site. But then, your words will mean so much to so many people. Friend of mine of her mother, I just wish i could have my mum back. Tis tragic how life treats the best people.

i feel almost guilty for mentioning the fact that this is very finely written.

[Claire in VA]

Incredible read. I understand this all-too-well.
I prayed those same prayers.
Thank you for sharing this.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
~Claire in Virginia

[Michael G.]

Well written tribute, sir.
It is heart felt and your love comes shining through.
It is difficult to watch and endure. To hope for the good days,... knowing the not so good days around still there.
I have a parent there, also.

[Robbie~xoxo~]

We often carry the burden of our loved ones, when they are not able to realize their situation...It's with immense love and connection that helps us get through those tough times. You have captured the devastation of watching your world slip away... My heart goes out to you. This is a well expressed Heartfelt piece.

[Jabriel]

i pray for you sir

[Kiari Sabon]

its very well written and may your pains flee from you always

[Wendy Seames Garner]

Such a sad way to slowly lose a loved one. My heart goes out to you.