For My Deep Thinking Friend Who Is Coming To An End of Things

I came to see you at the remodeled hospital there were bright tiles, statuary Marys, and assorted saints "full code" was on the door. We talked about your eventual escape and some summer plans Now ,I am informed by curt text that there is a DNR with "comfort care," and no further attempts at treatment. Too much oxygen for home or nursing home, a quick move to hospice across the road. I kind of knew when the nurse's eyes slid over you and the live plant I brought in the optimism of the early part of the week was jammed in a light-less corner- I set it back on your tray. You showed me that the nurses no longer came running when you took off your mask- the machine readout was dimmed and the alarms no longer blared. You want to be sure that I plant hazelnuts, and build a bomb or storm shelter, you know someone with a backhoe... "Jesus lives on the 4th plane, you know", you tossed out to engage me "...but there are other planes..." a gasp and the mask back on. Your sister quickly interjects that I need to find "someone" to talk to you about this, someone who is interested. I will talk to you about Jesus, and argue for his placement in the 6th plane to see those blue eyes twinkle over the mask. I will plant hazelnuts, I affirm, and look into the backhoe. I see you, and I will see you around, my friend. For Mike M.