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Telemetry

Telemetry

I hear the thump and hiss
of the ventilator.
I see the wavy QRS complex on
the monitor.

I see you lying so still, a living
organism kept alive by machines.
I know you are gone, but I
have trouble letting go.

I know your living will
says no support.
My will says I want you
still with me.

I see the doctor look at you
then at me.
I see his sad eyes reflect my
feelings.

I know he has watched this scene
play out many times before.
I watch him shake his head from
side to side.
I look at the nurse, she
looks away.
I take your hand one last time
and ask for forgiveness.

I nod and the nurse
pulls the plug.
The wavy lines go flat and
the ventilator goes silent.

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