James Marshall Goff Poet Free verse

Night Drone

Parts of me lay scattered around now 
Wailing and misery from the nursing home 
A cup of ice water
Maybe a spoon of ice cream 

My only attempt to sooth her

Nights uninterrupted seem
Like a spaceship entering another realm

Rushing to the phone

Pleading for relief
Frantic, I call for the night nurse

Calling back in 30mn praying for

A calm voice

My day planned to scour groceries 
And deli's
Hoping for the perfect creation 
Or taste she craves

Updates from her care team
Always the same hated word

Declining 

My girls secretly know
A picture of my grandchildren 

Brings a smile to the corners
Of her mouth

My car knows the short drive to her
A fast-entry spot awaits

Peaking at her daily letters to dad

18 years, everyday the same first line

"My darling, I love you, I miss you
Please bring me home"

A dozen journals, now stacked
By my bed

The quiet of the night drones on

Your home now Mom 

And forever in my heart

"Hold a place for me mom"......

06/12/24
2:08 am
Mom transitioned 06/05/24

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Eileen Manassian July 28, 2024 at 12:37 AM This pulled at my heartstrings. Sorry for your loss. The only comfort is knowing that she's no longer in pain or suffering. That ending... hold a place for me... don't get any ideas of leaving too soon.

Joe Maverick June 18, 2024 at 7:46 PM Heres wishing you peace James.! I cannot Fully comprehend anothers mindset.. Who Can? May you rest and gather your strength I trust God will refresh you!!

Sara Kendrick June 12, 2024 at 4:31 AM Sorry for your loss. This part of life is very hard for those left behind. Time will heal and time will bring back mostly good memories. Sorry to learn of your mom's long illness and stay in the nursing home. I went through that with my parents. My father was there for 10 years and my mother for 12 years. Thanks for the visit to my page. Sara K