Cancer Circa 1967

CANCER circa 1967

It ate away at compassion
chewed ragged the edges of love
hard breath drawn through clenched teeth
fighting the whisper
denying the thought
                                                  “why can’t she just let go….and die?”

However long it was, was too long.
To watch hopelessly
mindlessly, angrily
as she lay in a drugged stupor
IV’s supplying sustenance
but no relief for her
                                           or for us.

She did eventually let go….and die.
It brought no closure for us
only the angst of anger’s guilt
the emptiness of hope’s folly
                                                       and the sadness of wishing it so.

6/6/2021

Cancer Ivy Poetry Contest
Copyright © | Year Posted 2021

Poem

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Darnell Sr Avatar
August 23, 2021 at 6:16 AM
Hi, John! Well, it's like this, John. I am a cancer survivor, so I know all too well the tolls it takes on another person living with ugliness. It's a cruel, ugly, nasty disease, but it was the cards I was dealt. Living with this diseased body isn't fun, that's for sure. But, I will not let this disease beat me because I refuse to leave. But I'm afraid that day isn't far off. So, until then, I cast my burdens on God. God Bless you always. Exceptional penning here, John! Best of Wishes, William
Sambourne Avatar
July 2, 2021 at 1:34 PM
An exceptionally strong write on the relentless toll that cancer takes on our lives. The final stanza is especially powerful. A well deserved top placement. Congratulations! Brian
Alex Avatar
July 1, 2021 at 7:20 PM
It ate away at compassion chewed ragged the edges of love Beautiful. Congratulations!
Allison Avatar
June 11, 2021 at 3:28 PM
Such a heartbreaking scenario John and sadly it is one many families have to witness with a loved one being consumed by this cruel disease:-( hugs jan xx
Romios Avatar
June 7, 2021 at 1:40 PM
JOHN This touched my heart, Pangie xx
La France Avatar
June 6, 2021 at 7:53 PM
John, you captured the angst of watching a loved person dying of cancer, wonderful, excellent writing, peace _Constance
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