It came like a robber in
the night
memory loss
confusion and not
knowing what’s next
on the menu.
She loves him in spite
of the pain
knowing the way he was—
a man for all families
raised eight children they did
the farm not prosperous, but
fulfilling
family pets, chickens to chase
hay to cut and the joy
of caring for little ones
now grown into that same
caring, watching dad
in the middle of the room
head bent, words from his lips
are prayers for his
young ones
time for bed, he suddenly
shouts and they lead him to his
room where dreams
will spend the night, and
his children are little once again.
© Richard L. Provencher
(This poem was inspired by the
love of Rose for husband Bob)
Comments
skinner_jennifer | July 17, 2011 - 01:11
Hello Richard,
this is such a beautiful piece, full of love and
a caring family. Really enjoyed reading.
Jenny.
swindonwoody | July 17, 2011 - 12:08
Hi Richard
the last few lines where it said they take him to his room. in our family we have someone who is 91 and has demitire and is in a home. and it is just like this you see peope in there heads bent forward
they scream and they take them to them room. thank you.
maggie
celticman | July 17, 2011 - 12:50
Yeh, dementia of any kind is a tragedy for all involved.
maggyvaneijk | July 17, 2011 - 18:13
A heartbreaking piece filled with imagery I won't be able to forget, I loved the last stanza in particular.
Richard L. Prov... | July 20, 2011 - 13:57
Thank you so much, Jenny. I am often asked by folks wishing to write, and wondering what to write about. My answer---open up your eyes to what surrounds you. Richard LP
Richard L. Prov... | July 20, 2011 - 13:59
Thank you too, Maggie. When I write, I close my eyes and ask myself---what significant situation is nearby, while I seek the horizon to write some magnificent poem. Then I drop my head and I see. I see. Isn't writing wonderful!! Regards, Richard LP
Richard L. Prov... | July 20, 2011 - 14:05
Hello Celticman---thank you for your encouraging comments. I had the pleasure of working in a Home for the Aged in Ontario and met my first Alzheimer clients. My conclusion---most live in a world of bliss, usually unaware of the immediacy of their surroundings. From rote, they respond to questions or statements and may answer in a few moments, or in the privacy of their evening rest giggle over the words spoken. Those who look after such loved ones in their own homes are really saints. Cheers, Richard LP
Richard L. Prov... | July 20, 2011 - 14:09
To maggyvaneijk---life is full of passion, as we love, look after or write about a soul who lived life, raised a family and now is nearing the end of a journey. Isn't it a joy to see the fruits of that person's existence, since we are the benefactors of their being on this earth? All the best, Richard LP