John A'Hern Poet Free verse

Time Running Out

My last foray into this arena
Had me living memories not wished to share
Here I am again, another visit
Into the elderly homes we wish not

A sunny day another gathering
Nurses working, making life happen
Elderly in wheelchairs, still smiling
Others in mobile beds, unsure of the happening

A talk by an ancient, born 1917
Strong voice begging to be heard
Wartime memories, mist is clearing
From death too imprisonment

Visions flow, must be told
Strong voice, telling of memories
Some stumbles, others not so
I look around the room 

Half the listeners into their snooze
On and on the story flows
Death and glory, hand in hand
How can you tell such a sad command?

Bravery such as only you have known
Bodies of men, families memories
Story spanning for one hour
Comment from teller, time had run out

The carers sobs echoed around the room
They all knew what time running out meant
They gathered, comforting ensued
trying so hard to change the feelings in the room 

I leave as in visits before, memories flooding
My thoughts, a place such as this even exists
If there is a being ruling the happenings
Messages needed, please send happiness.

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Panagiota Romios November 9, 2023 at 8:08 AM Hey John, you have a soul that echoes of depth, loving and care! They may not have the energy we have Mandala they are still human beings and worth our time in love. Remind me that one day I will be like that too but I remember I live a good life. Old people are so people.. we must respect people of all ages. A great poem, Pangie,

Wendy Nipas November 9, 2023 at 5:35 AM The irony of old age is that the elderly now have to almost beg to be tolerated, while when in their prime they were the ones who decided what was to be tolerated. This life is a silly game. Let's keep respecting our older ones. Love your poem btw.