Nighty Night Granny
Sleep sweet child for the laughter of the leaves
has withered on the trees and the wind blows cold
as dusk calls with shallow, whispered breath
and nighttime masks the waiting dawn.
Let not a lone tear, drip from your tender eyes,
as you look upon me lying here.
I have seen so many things in my long life,
I have lived my dreams and sang my songs.
I have danced and laughed, and kissed and loved.
Though I shiver through sweating brow, my bed is warm,
the aches and pain, a mere moment's distraction.
I'm sure they will be but a memory soon.
Is that fear I see in you, as I look beyond the glass?
Cry not for me my beautiful one.
In a few days your mom will take you home,
yet, your smile will linger within me.
All the better if you can't come close,
but please, do not fear the mask I reluctantly wear.
It provides me with a breath of fresh air
as my chest grows weary from this cruel malady.
How I wish I could hold you and whisper I love you,
but that is far beyond us now,
only gentle memories that linger in my mind
as I see the worry on your mother's face.
Don't be concerned, she will be there for you
as was I for her and, someday, you will be
to calm the confusion in your little ones' tears,
I would have liked to see that day.
But, alas, I do not believe this mask upon my face
will see me through another sunrise.
I have fought so hard but grown so very tired.
Let me sleep now, perhaps, I will see your smile in the morning.
03/15/2020
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