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Poem

24 begins with its cruel rule:
"No sustenance or quenching of thirst
until the sad/happy day passes”

Caring women with initials enter
Poking, prodding, asking the same questions,
While loved ones nervously watch

Close friends, friends, and strangers
Phone and visit, offering their comforting words
"We love you."  "We're praying for you”
"Make a pact with God"  "Chin up!"  "Think positive!"

Their messages intermingle with disquieting thoughts
Of hopes and dreams left unfulfilled
"Why me?"  "What now?"  "I’m too young for this ...”
As hunger gnaws, and expectation is postponed

Caring women with initials enter one last time
Poking, prodding, asking the same questions,
As the pushers of the bed arrive with their benign smiles

Unwanted darkness returns
As uncommon mortals work at their bizarre craft
Opening the golden bowl
Exposing its precious contents

East and West Coast loved ones,
Separated by time and circumstance,
Carry on their prayerful vigil

As 24 continues
Surrounded by love
Sustained by hope






Copyright © 1994-2018 by Mark Toney.  All rights reserved.
Image credit: Out of the darkness | Photography by Thomas Toft | via Flickr

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