Time Has Slipped Away

I see the dying rays of a setting sun
Knowing they are reflections in your eyes
I see you put joy and happiness on the run
With your slowly-released tempered sighs.

I see your struggle to speak words aloud
For spoken words, time has slipped away.

I see your trembling hands reaching out
Grasping your last ounce of courage left.
I see your lips have lost their lovely pout
Soon you will leave all who love you bereft.

I see your struggle to speak words aloud
For spoken words, time has slipped away.

Some things you feel are important to say
I see grimaces of pain furrow your brow
If only there was more time, another way
I see time to say our last goodbye is now.

I see your struggle to speak words aloud
For spoken words, time has slipped away.


FIRST PLACE WINNER
written August 8, 2021
submitted to "Your Favorite August 2021 Poem" Contest
sponsored by Constance La France
Copyright © | Year Posted 2021

Poem

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La France Avatar
September 2, 2021 at 2:26 PM
Milt, beautiful and congratulations on your win in my contest ~ peace and tranquility _ Constance
Seeker Avatar
August 31, 2021 at 9:10 AM
Powerful! Deep emotions so delicately and eloquently portrayed, congrats Milton!
Hankins Avatar
August 31, 2021 at 9:53 AM
Thank you so much, Unseeking Seeker. Straight from my heart.
Merryman Avatar
August 11, 2021 at 6:14 PM
Milton, this is so well written, filled with emotion. The repeated lines stand out emphasizing the finality of the situation. Congrats on your win! Blessings, Kim M
Hankins Avatar
August 11, 2021 at 6:16 PM
Thank you so much for your sweet and thoughtful comment on my poem. I really appreciate it, Kim.
Boreham Avatar
August 11, 2021 at 12:52 AM
very touching poem, Congratulations on your win !
Hankins Avatar
August 11, 2021 at 9:28 AM
Thank you very much, Paris-Maree, for your thoughtful comment on my poem.
Adams Avatar
August 10, 2021 at 4:13 AM
Wow, I love this piece
Hankins Avatar
August 10, 2021 at 8:44 AM
Thank you so much, King. I am so happy you read and liked my poem. I really appreciate your visit.
Radice Avatar
August 9, 2021 at 10:24 PM
From your opening lines to the final lines your poem had me transfixed Milt. The poem is so sad and I'm wondering - as it feels so real - as to whether you are actually describing a personal experience with a loved one through this poem. The repeated couplets are used to great poignant effect. Cheers - Gary
Hankins Avatar
August 10, 2021 at 8:48 AM
Thanks for your thoughts, Gary. Yes, the poem was a re-creation of events surrounding the death of my wife. The idea has been in my mind for almost three years, but it took this long before I could bring myself to pen it. I appreciate your kindness, Gary.
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