Last Call

LAST CALL We gathered around him, circling his bed. Last of the tubes removed, he’s no longer being fed. We’ve finally given consent to the inevitable conclusion. After many weeks and prayers we’re not under any delusions. You no longer belong to lines and machines. That took your spirit away and made you only dream. Your slipping away, one breath, then the other. As if the air leaving you went searching for another. They’ve moved you to the fourth floor. They’ll make you comfortable as you walk toward the door. It’s a comfortable room with comfortable chairs. Lights dimmed softly, we sit and stare. You can’t hear us, or so we’ve been told. Gently we stroke your brow, your hands are a little cold. We make small talk, mostly we sit. Alone in our thoughts, you in the midst. Doc says shouldn’t be long though that’s not a fact. We wait for a sign that begins the final act. We hope you felt our love in these final hours. The prayers we said, to that vase with the flowers. I know you’re ready to go. I know your time is near. Your love’s been calling these last ten years. She’s waiting for you to come back home. To take you in her arms so you’ll never be alone. Daniel 1/11/16