Anthem

"When it's time to die, let us not discover that we have never lived." - Thoreau

Today I'll visit my parents in assisted living.

I'll feed my father.

Listening to him speak jibberish.

Trying to reminisce.

The power of speech stolen from him.

I'll watch one of the worker's change his diaper and put him to bed.

 Wheelchair.

Round trip.

No room to slip.

He'll break down and cry.

Wondering why.

My mother will be there too with her walker.

Watching.

Stone deaf.

She calls it God's waiting room.

I'll keep turning my head toward the wall.

Looking down in denial.

A perilous fight.

Giving proof through the night.

Their anthem does not include proudly hailing at the twilight's last gleaming.

Only my tears ...

... streaming ...

Author's Note

"Even trees do not die without a groan." - Thoreau