July 28, 2010

In the Belly of the Whale

Today I received word:

It's time to start.
Start, what does that mean
when there is no end?
It's grief; it goes on and on
until we don't anymore.

He weighs less than I did
before I had a baby growing in me,
but the difference is
he's a foot taller.
His top denture falls into his mouth;
it blocks the words that try
to force their way out,
but I knew long ago
those words will never come.

Your brother says
you seem to be living in the distant past,
and I'm not sure what's there,
but I hope it's my mom
and your old camera
and water,
lots and lots of water,
with a footpath
leading to peace.



(Got word today that my dad continues to decline. It's not a big surprise, but still, the tears refuse to stop tonight.)

7 comments:

Sara said...

I am so, so sorry Leslie. :(

Nanette said...

I'm also so sorry, Leslie.

You and your family are in my thoughts.

phairhead said...

yr in my thoughts :(

inflammatory writ said...

thinking of you, my dear. xo

Angelina said...

You are in my thoughts, my friend.

Kimberly said...

Leslie -- I cannot imagine what you are going through, but know I am here if you need anything! {{HUGS}}

amber said...

This brought tears to my eyes. I'm so so sorry.