1990
De Paul University
Writing from the Inside
Teacher: Zoe Keithley
A WAY TO DIE?
I was just touching him, caring for him
He was a kindly old soul
I found joy in comforting him
His unseeing eyes, said thank you
His unhearing ears, heard my concern.
His spirit left before his heart stopped
The alarms sounded, they came running – The “Great Saviors”
I held his hand, his body shook –
They pounded his chest, they forced air in.
“They” did this – the intruders.
At 91, who should force his stay?
How dare they slow his natural way.
He needs to go, I let him go
I tell him so aloud!
They are aghast – at my candor.
I touch his face
A wrinkled, now unfeeling face
This touch is for me
I’m glad to have been with him
That he was not alone.
Published in Poetry Annual