This thought was inspired by the unrelenting and uncomplaining devotion of my brother-in-law as he waited by the side of his wife in her final weeks, slowly fading from life. It was written in the morning of the day she passed.
Interminable
Forever waiting
Tracks fading to distance
Rails linked by arms tied
Promises made and kept
Still keeping now
Coming and going
Vaguely remembered
Trying to forget
Daring to dream
Refusing to contemplate
a life not together, apart.
Standing in life’s station
Not looking down the tracks
Just straight ahead
Ready to step back on board
When the train finally rolls in.
Family, friends gathering,
Filtering onto the platform
Looking at you unseen
The arrivals/departures
Empty but for Faith, Hope
Love ready to hold your tears.
Empty tracks, full hearts
The mournful whistle
Finally blows in the silence.