Grief

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It’s been hard to say good-bye – over these Alzheimer years. The memory
went first - I remember the day it began, you were late and called to say you
were lost - right here in town.

It’s been hard to let you go – you would be so sincere and earnest
in your ideas but the logic was out of this world - and this from a
first-class problem solver - the manager who transformed companies.

It’s been hard to fill the void – we included you in things
and made you a part of all that happened, but you slowly went
from leader to follower - even your grandchild understood things you didn’t.

It’s been hard to re-adjust my world – the frustration often showed.
you had been a mover and a shaker, the family leader
now everything was mapped out for you.

It’s been hard to handle the loss – your feelings became very
prominent. Like a child you needed recognition and approval.
You became huggy, kissy and clingy.

It’s been hard to replace a friend – you still took the daily
walks, could play dominoes and say a few things.
Amazingly, you could sing songs word-for word.

It’s been hard to see you lately – the shaky steps and
the blank stare. No more games, down to a couple words
and a canyon between you and society.

It’s been hard for the final good-bye – you
went from dad the powerful to dad the invalid
from giver to receiver, from friend to stranger.

You died this morning, but I’ve missed you for years -
Dad my caring father!

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