When They Are Not

Mother frail, father forgets what he just said,

Parents fading while I watch from the edge.

The hands that once held me now tremble in mine,

And I’m learning that love takes its time.

I can be there when they are not,

Hold the pieces that they forgot.

The years go fast, the nights feel long,

I’ll be strong when they are not.

Sister helping on the farm,

Future choices looming near.

Enjoying the time that there is left.

Sometimes leaves me a crying mess.

Sometimes leaves me a crying mess.

I can be there when they are not,

Hold the pieces that they forgot.

The years go fast, the nights feel long,

I’ll be strong when they are not.

Growing up wasn’t easy,

Now I see how hard they tried.

Seeing them fade leaves me queasy,

But I won’t hide, I’ll stay by their side.

Enjoying the time before the loss,

Counting blessings, not the cost.

When they can’t recall what once they taught,

I’ll be strong when they are not.