Copyright 2007 – Joe Thomas.

.
I sit with you
Beside your bed
With sad images
In my head
Where was I
When you needed me?
I was your
Only family


.
Too Busy with
My career
I neglected you
Year by year
Just a phone call
Now and then
A birthday card
If I remembered when


.
My financial help
You would decline
Always saying
You were fine
I blame myself
For being blind
To your unselfish
State of mind


.
You live alone
And never complain
Somehow you surmount
Your terrible pain
I’m retired now
Home to stay
To be with you
Everyday


.
I’ll care for you
As you cared for me
When I was young
With no family
I’m sorry Maggie
For the past
I’ll make things good
For you at last


.
Sleep well my sibling
With your sister here
Your lonely existence
Will disappear
She’s smiling now
Though her face is still
Suddenly I’m afraid
I feel a chill


.
Once again
I’m too late
Maggie’s gone on
An important date
I weep quietly
For her soul
And regret
My uncaring role


.
I will forever
Carry the load
Of Maggie’s demise
And my selfish code
But I’ll carry on
Through each day
Much wiser now
In every way


.
I’ll listen more
And give not take
That’s one resolution
I’m determined to make
By showing compassion
To loved ones and friends
I’ll enrich my life
Till my journey ends*