visits from death

the room was dark and empty

other than a floor lamp.

other than a window leaking dusk,

there was no light.

the walls were slate

like hopsital waiting rooms.

i stood there,

anticipating

something.

then, i saw him.

looking just as i remembered him last.

healthy, loving, alive.

i ran up to him,

"i can't believe it's you"

with my arms reaching out,

"i can't believe it's you"

he tried telling me

something.

all i can remember is how he asked for me

to tell my mother

something important,

something forgotten,

something reassuring.

it was as if the world picked up speed

and all his words were in half time.

everything was moving so fast

i couldn't make his visit last.

how i wish i could remember

what he said deep in my slumber,

maybe he could have lived through me.

it all ended so soon,

i was barely able to catch my breath

before old papa went home to death.

Author's Notes/Comments: 

i know i was sleeping but this wasnt a dream

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