Painless

I lie here in this bed. I know, regretfully, where I am. they will be in again soon. I awoke here, not knowing for sure. Now weeks of fighting. I am tired. I want to go. I hear familiar voices coaxing and soothing me. Why I fight, I do not know, but I must. I struggle every minute, every breath. I didn't know I was so strong. Still I fight. The one with cold hands returns. She is so gentle. I like her. They pull the sheet, roll me, prop me. I am not comfortable. I cannot speak. I hurt so bad. I hope they know. As the day goes on, I see faces before me, none I know, all white and effervescent. I feel at peace, ready to go. I take my last and slowly exhale. I lift up, floating free. I see everyone there. I am not alone. I see their tears of grief and feel their relief. I look one last time, then I turn toward the light, I feel no more pain.