REST HOME

this is where
mind
and body  
betray
the soul
and the soul,
fed up with their bullshit,
finally departs,
letting the skin
go yellow
 
where
the scent
is ammonia
laced with pee
and the learned,
having forgotten,
carry empty
wallets
and nurture dolls
passed one  
cold, bony hand
to another
 
this is
the final bend
in the long road,
the dark promise
fate whispered
in the
infant ear,
fulfilled
 
this is where
the mansion  
shimmers
on its bright  
and holy hill,
the faces
of loved ones,
long deceased,
clearly discernible
behind
the dim mist
of cataracts