Carolyn Devonshire Poet Free verse

Willful Living

years of pain
sometimes unbearable
terminal illness progresses
your future – always in God’s hands

abilities slip away swiftly
no longer able to care for yourself
friends and family create distance
but my Living Will brings comfort

comatose patients can linger for years
life-pumping feeding tubes and respirators
false hope instilled in loved ones
watching and praying for a miracle

no machines will keep my body alive
I’ll not go out this way
as my “Rage Against the Dying of the Light” closes
my spirit’s eager to explore eternal life

no viewing or funeral
just a blessing of last rights
ashes scattered in the Atlantic sea
where cool waters carry memories both life and death






*Written February 16, 2012 for Catie’s “Free Verse” contest

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Joe Maverick February 18, 2012 at 2:55 PM Hey Carolyn..) Cool Lady... i could be close to tears..? yet also, i feel a reassurance from the words you use..! and i feel your poise..i am glad to know you,, glad to be a fellow writer on " the soup" i will keep in touch,, always..Joe..)

Daver Austin February 18, 2012 at 10:18 AM Wonderful! I believe you have, at some time, had a revelation. To not fear death is such a blessing. This one brought a tear. LOve, daver

Kevin Clark February 17, 2012 at 4:34 AM A very heartfeltwrite. Good luck with your health. I will say a prayer for you

Cecilia Macfarlane February 16, 2012 at 5:04 PM A very courageous well written write Carolyn....a living will eases the difficult decisions that loved ones left behind have to make when there is no will. Bravo!

Russell Sivey February 16, 2012 at 4:47 PM What a sad realization of the facts of one's life! I hate knowing that this is your realization, that of a terminal illness! I believe you will be with us for many more years Carolyn, and hopefully good years! At least you will have a lot of support, you can count on me for support, I'll be here for you! This poem says a lot and I believe a lot of people will join me and be with you throughout your troubles! This is a wonderful poem! Great Work!!

Deck Fitzgerald February 16, 2012 at 4:43 PM Loved the way this came together and with such feeling , Good luck in the contest Carolyn , hugs and best wishes , Declan xxx