THE LAST TIME I SAW MY MOTHER
1997
She was sighing in deep relief
The hospice light
Welcoming,
Gentle on her face
The hospice bed
The hospice blanket
Snugged to her chin
Tumbling into slumber
Breathing so deeply
My emphysemic mom
Sleeping, never waking
Peace at hand
Not so long before
In hospital
In that jarring clashing
Hospital glare and gasping --
Her last words
So clear
"I don't know what to tell you, babe."
My mom caring for me,
And saying good-bye
And letting go.
Bless you, mom.
