DEAR MOM,
I see you, but it isn’t you.
The same eyes, the same smile, the same face.
But you’re leaving me, one breath at a time,
going to a peaceful place in your mind
where there’s no place for me.
The arms that used to hold me are quiet at your sides.
The legs that used to take me for long walks are still.
Gone are the memories of my childhood.
You recognize me, but you no longer KNOW me.
Week by week you turn further inward,
and I can’t reach you there to bring you back.
I can only keep watch, and laugh with you on a good day,
and retreat to my room and cry when confusion clouds your every thought.
I will love you, and care for you, and keep you safe until you leave,
And the memories I’ll have on this journey will give me peace until we’re together again
YOUR LOVING DAUGHTER.