Thank you so much for this beautiful poem. My wife of 54 years is suffering from Stage 5 Dementia and I have experienced most of what you have written. It is the most difficult thing I have ever dealt with and I am truly in a state of mourning even though she is still with me.
Bob Sproull

Quite a lovely poem, Michele. You surely have a very caring heart, and that sincerely seems to me, that it carries over in your actions, words, thoughts and conversations. The next time my patience is tested [i and Mom are both new at this: i know my frustration is so deep, but her fear and confusion about her own state of changing health must really be quite scary for her. My lovely Mom doesn't express her fear though - but i know it is there ~ the sparkle in her eye goes away until someone begins conversing with her. She's deeply appreciative of the care she's getting at a rehab facility for post-op shoulder replacement. But when no one's around ~ i need to say "i will .... " even though her words and comments to me truly hurt. So, i pray to adopt a new approach to things: "i will ... be the safe place [you] where you can be yourself, ask the questions, express ANY fears [you] may have." i'm 24/7 caregiver, with this exception of post-op care at a rehab facility ~ and she just wants to come home. i'm exhausted, but i'll now quietly think to myself of your poem: "i will .... " Thank you for sharing your poem, your positive outlook in the face of trials and tribulations ... blessings

After 16 years After many mistakes these I learned, bless us all.

Pome speaks trutn.thank You

Well, "I will try" seems more realistic, (sigh).

Thank you, that is just what I feel for my dad. It is heartbreaking, but so right that I take care of him.