As My Mother Slips Away

I called my mother the other day- just to listen to her voice She answered dear Steve – yes this is me- how are you this day I said I was fine- it has been some time- I searched for more words to talk She cantered a bit then came to a halt- as I began to say Mother dear- this is Mark- how are you today Mark she replied- I have a Mark- he was the oldest of three How is school - are you making good grades- are you coming home real soon I told her I would- If only I could- would she know me anyway I visited my mother the other day- at a home for Alzheimer patients Her stare in the air- made it be known- that she could not remember I sat by her side- we nibbled on crackers- we looked out the window pane Then I was father- she told me she miss me –I cried a thousand tears She reached for my hand- I did not resist- I was blessed to make her happy How are you Tom- I said I was fine- The kids will be home soon I told her it’s time- I must go home - I have to work tomorrow I took her hand- I’ll see you soon- Goodbye Steve she told me As my Mother slips away today- how precious are my memories For after this world –I can hardly wait- for my Mother to recognize me