The Final Thirty- Nine

The skin on my hands, paper thin Showing twisted blue veins within, underneath. …Dry as a rustling autumn leaf… I only recognize who I see in my mirror when I look deep into my dark eyes. …just a mass of wrinkles otherwise… My whole family, children and grandchildren, Came to sit at my Sunday table. …I will cook for them as long as I am able… I look around at each face here. All full of laughter and loud, boisterous fun! …I see myself in each one… Finally, to the refuge of our bedroom. My other half and I, together still through all these years. …through much joy and some tears… Still desiring to become one, the age of our bodies disappear as our souls again unite. …and I lay in his arms all night… The darkness, for now, is complete. I watch as the clock ticks from 5:20, to 5:21. …but predicted for 6:00, comes the sun... My body sated, my mind is free, to consider my life and all the happiness within. …Thank you Father for everything, Amen… Just as predicted, the clock ticks over to six and I watch the sun rise. …and for the final time, I close my eyes.