PROMPT: It Was Like This

In memory of my father, J.W.A. “Doc” Buyers 7/17/28-5/20/06

It was like this:

He lay emaciated on the bed

What happened to my body?

I fed him ice chips

Ah, that feels better

I knew he was close to death

Where am I?

He would have loved this room

Who is this woman taking such gentle care of me?

This is my father

Is this my mother?

A Marine, a CEO, a man of influence

I used to be somebody

Even though he’s frail, his body looks lean and muscular

I had the power

His lips are dry, where is the Vaseline?

Why can’t I swallow, where are my words?

The roof of his mouth is black

Something tastes bad

Are you comfortable Daddy, what can I do?

Mmmm, she sounds kind

I stroke his head, I pat his hand, I feed him ice chips again

She’s a good one, must be one of mine

Death is near, I try not to cry

Let me close my eyes and rest