The Journal
Caregiving
Upon First Look
A poem about the moment a familiar face suddenly makes you fear what may be coming.
Upon first look my body succumbs To gravity.
I breathe deeply To test life.
Your laugh is still here Your want to speak Still strong.
Yet dread swells. Your face— once a comfort now a stranger— Filling my lungs.
Stealing quietly in the night loudly in sickness and plainly in sight.
Lingering. other times, sudden.
Its hold Has us cornered.
You come up for air and find our eyes Circling your arms Bringing us in.
All of you You say, touching your heart Is good.
Simple words Powerfully gestured Your love is felt.
I take another look On your face Are you there?
Written by Ti Mougne
