Escape

Escape:  Tribute to George Oliver 

"People can't fly when they're backed into a corner."  -Tami Longaberger

Centenarian, I can only imagine 
What you were thinking
When you boarded your wheelchair, 
Headed out the door of the Ewing Wing,
And took the downhill runway. 

Surely you meant to take flight-
Bystanders who saw that you had left your Rocking chair
Could only gape in awe at your audacity  of hope.

The California Highway Patrol,
Noting that you forgot to fasten your seatbelt,
Rushed in where the federal aviation commission could not.
The CHP took you back to John C Fremont
And bound you to earth for the few days
you had left.

 Trapped, we often get our wings late. 
My friend, I can only assume, that you,
Despite the new alarm on the door of the Ewing wing,
 Are flying high above us
Copyright © | Year Posted 2025

Poem

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Sanchez Avatar
March 30, 2026 at 6:50 AM
At the stat of my health care career, I worked at a nursing home. Your poem brought back so many fond memories. Katie, Roman, and Juan were our escape artists. Your visuals were right on. Love your reference to the physical and the spiritual flight. We can dream ourselves into the next realm.
Gifford Avatar
March 27, 2026 at 12:24 AM
Hello Leo, this is a very beautiful tribute. Nicely written. Have a wonderful day.
Agustin Avatar
December 31, 2025 at 2:11 AM
Thanks for sharing this... exposing your thoughts through your unique poetic style. Welcome to Poetry Soup. I welcome you with the love of the Lord, expressed by John 3:16 of the Bible, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." Be blessed.
Rodrigues Avatar
December 30, 2025 at 12:34 PM
Interesting write! Nice tribute!
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