In memory of my mother
What to say,
as she breathes fitfully,
the last minutes of her life.
We struggle
to find the best way of saying
we love you,
be happy to be on your way
to the God of your life-long devotion,
to put love, comfort, encouragement
into our uncertain, dismayed voices;
words worthy of a lifetime
of love and care.
Her breathing weakens;
doubtful that anything
is penetrating the fog of her condition,
we must still try:
words to carry
as she steps off the ledge.
