Changes

So my dear children, please hear my cry

You may not see my struggles as I try to keep them under my practiced smile and reassurance that “I’m OK”

You may not see that I struggle with activities of daily living

You may avoid the times my body or my mind missteps

Look at me child!

Don’t turn away!

Avoidance could ruin a meaningful day.

My time with you may be shorter than you can know.

I’m here now so look and care.

Recognize the changes – the minuscule wrinkles –

The drooping eyelids – the careful slower walk

The things I forget that are a must: a bill, a pill, a date.

Be gentle with me – just know it is a journey of change

I’m here for now but the daily support I’ve given you

I need you to gently reciprocate and be aware

“The times – they are a changing.”