Dementia

i’m losing the love of my life
he said
through poorly hidden tears

no she’s already gone
he whispers

she doesn’t even know my name
he rages pounding his fist on the table

it used to be hugs and kisses
family outings
vacations celebrations
arguments followed by embraces

he was her lover protector
partner-in-crime
for more than sixty years

now he is
a stranger
a caretaker

now it is long journeys
to the bathroom and back

now it is cutting her food
making sure she chews

soon it will be pudding
oatmeal and puréed meats

he is watchful
observing each breath
as she slumbers

hoping the next breath
will not be the last
or that it will

(C) 2020 Raibeart Bruis