A Poem a Day (138): Home from home

Home from home

I visited my mother today,

Perched in her nest of pillows.

“I’ve had a good innings, love.

I’m ready to go,” she tells me,

Pointing to her packed bag

As if it’s a holiday trip.

“I worry about your father.

He could never cope alone.

You know that better than I.

And you’ll be fine,” she adds.

“You’re a big, strong girl.”

Inside, I’m still her little girl.

The clock belts out half-three,

Signifying it is time for Joan

To come and read to her.

The nurse will replace me

And I will leave my mother.

I’ll be a stranger once more.

Copyright Vickie Johnstone, May 8, 2020