They know you, a bold executioner
roaming their halls seeking humans
to complete your pandemic purpose.
Nights follow days in a quarantined
existence of food, TV and hobbies.
roaming their halls seeking humans
to complete your pandemic purpose.
Nights follow days in a quarantined
existence of food, TV and hobbies.
Thoughts of limited time increase
survival of those determined to live.
With distance, washing and masks,
they wrestle with fear, while nearby
victims scramble for scraps of life.
survival of those determined to live.
With distance, washing and masks,
they wrestle with fear, while nearby
victims scramble for scraps of life.
Whispers saying, “She has the virus”
and “He died yesterday” create new
visions of people wracked with pain.
Healthcare workers wearing full-body
protection suits seem sinister, surreal,
surprising in a place known as home.
Posted photographs of deceased friends
remind them of good times that will end.
Their new normal is difficult, but doable.
Mugged by history, they pray for peace.
© Frances Shani Parker
Frances Shani Parker, Author
Becoming Dead Right: A Hospice Volunteer in Urban Nursing Homes is available in paperback and e-book editions in America and other countries at online and offline booksellers. Hospice and Nursing Homes Blog Website: http://www.francesshaniparker.com/
