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My Fear

I know that all good things must meet their fate, but to die alone would bring such sorrows. None there to reminisce about the past, or to ponder upon the tomorrows. No one there to hold tightly my frail hand, or to gently caress my leathered cheek. With no last kiss to soothe my furrowed brow, no loving words given for memories keep. No one to whisper a final goodbye, or to pray for just a little more time. No one there to dry the tears from my face, as I succumb to the clocks closing chime. To pass unnoticed across the grey veil, with unfettered tears and shuddering breath. No one there to hear my last crying sigh, as my eyes darken with shadows of death.

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Deb M

Date: 10/9/2023 8:14:00 AM

Oh my Jerry… What a brilliant poem that hits the heart! I would not like to die alone either but l guess we have no say in it! Beautifully said from a loving heart my friend! Debx

Jerry Brotherton
Date: 10/9/2023 8:57:00 AM

Thanks for the kind comment, Deb. I think, if I had a heart attack or something that was quick it would be different than being forced into isolation due to some disease.

Christina Bowring

Date: 10/7/2023 10:27:00 AM

Jerry my friend this is such a poignant, emotive poem. So well written. Brought back many sad memories- for the past few years I have been frontline Covid here in the Uk and working on a Covid ward have witnessed great loss, grief and yes, lonely deaths. All care workers were there supporting as much as they could, but couldn’t take the place of their loved ones. May we pray the likes of Covid never enters our shores again. Your last two lines really hit home.

Christina Bowring
Date: 10/7/2023 10:32:00 AM

Many fear dying alone, myself included, and I can understand why. Very well expressed and thought provoking. Thank you for sharing. Hugs and smiles to you :):)

Anne-Lise Andresen

Date: 10/6/2023 2:19:00 PM

- A really sad thought, Jerry - Everyone wants a hand to hold, on the last journey of life :( - Have a lovely weekend :) - hugs

Jerry Brotherton
Date: 10/6/2023 2:57:00 PM

During Covid, hospitals were keeping people isolated. Many passed away without the comfort of loved ones.

Buhagiar Victor

Date: 10/6/2023 1:05:00 PM

As we grow old we think more of the other side of earth. But I am sure God is compassionate and will forgive. Blessings.

Jerry Brotherton
Date: 10/6/2023 2:54:00 PM

So true Victor.

Terry Flood

Date: 10/5/2023 2:56:00 PM

I suspect that's a global fear, Jerry and one that comes to pass for too many folk. I only hope if it happens to me, that nothing falls off when they finally find and move me… after all, if there is a heaven, I want it to be heavenly! A most moving write.

Jerry Brotherton
Date: 10/6/2023 2:50:00 PM

Thanks Terry. Yes, it is sad to think of those that had to face the end alone.

Sara Etgen-Baker

Date: 10/5/2023 1:52:00 PM

as I read your poem, Jerry, I was filled with sadness and tears appeared in my eyes. You've echoed some of my own aging fears. I can't imagine not having my husband around to hold my fragile hand and to reminisce or no one with whom to whisper that final goodbye. A powerful read that I am faving. I hope you have someone who's there for you. Truly I do. Enjoy your evening, Sara

Jerry Brotherton
Date: 10/6/2023 2:44:00 PM

Thanks, Sara. I hope that everyone has someone there to hold their hand.

Silent One

Date: 10/5/2023 12:57:00 PM

This is a deeply emotive one.. I can feel the angst and the sadness... touching poem that you have expressed from the bottom of your heart...

Jerry Brotherton
Date: 10/6/2023 2:34:00 PM

Thank you my friend.

Yann Rolland

Date: 10/5/2023 12:18:00 PM

very touching words, Jerry this is quite emotionnal, i am sure someone will hold your hand, a son or a wife, everyoe deserve that feeling but please wait some more time, take care yann

Jerry Brotherton
Date: 10/6/2023 2:34:00 PM

thanks Yann. This was inspired by the Covid days. People were dying in isolation and allowed no contact with their loved ones.