PostPoems Be Artistic. Be Creative. Be Inspired!

Please Be Patient

By Brenda Boyte

1997



Please, oh please, be patient with me.

As you can see, I'm not as young as I use to be.



My movements have slowed,

and sometimes I forget the simple things I was once shown.



My pace can be steady at times, but be aware

That I get in the way of the younger ones with speed to spare.



Please, please be patient with me.



There are times when I forget what I've been told:

Not because I'm stupid, but because I'm old.



When I see your face and know who you are,

but can't remember your name.

Know too, that I still love you the same.





The "Golden" Years

Brenda Boyte, RN, C

March 1991



As I entered the room, without saying a word, her eyes met mine and we smiled.  She was sitting alone by the window, slowly rocking to and fro.  Almost silently she was humming an old negro hymn, no doubt passed on to her from generations long before.  I didn't know the words but I felt the melody stir deep within my heart.



Her white hair, a bit in disarray, hung loosely about her face.  It sparkled with the flecks of sunshine passing through the thick pane of glass.  Her eyes were closed now, but the corners of her mouth were still formed into a smile.  It made me wonder what great movie must be playing behind her lids.



So calm and serene - dressed only in a faded blue gown with matching robe tied neatly beneath her chin and flowing majestically to her feet.  I blinked - she was gone; my eyes opened and I saw me.



I had grown old gracefully, full of wisdom, care and love, yet I sat alone by my window with only my memories to bring me pleasure.  There was no one with whom to share my thoughts, feelings or cares.  No one to hold my hand, or dry away my tears.  No one to comfort me in these, my golden years.





When I'm Old And No Longer Able

Brenda Boyte, RN, C 1996



When I put my underwear on my head,

and try to step into my hat,

don't laugh, it may come to my mind,

that I can't even do that.



When I pee in the plant,

that's sitting on the floor,

don't worry, I'm just watering it,

to help it grow more.



When I call you George,

and your name is Jane,

don't let it upset you, for there are times,

I don't remember my name.



When I eat with my fingers,

and make a mess on my face,

don't write to Miss Manners,

about my social disgrace.



When you come to visit me,

just love me - hold my hands,

don't confuse me more,

with all those demands.



When I can't remember,

that you were here just yesterday,

and call you mom or dad,

don't quickly go away.



When I speak of things long gone,

and a world you never knew,

don't try to orient me,

just stay a while there too.



When I'm confused,

and my whole world seems wrong,

just let me know,

that I'm safe and not alone.