Slipped Away

She slipped away while I was en route, flying cross-country, my head bowed in sorrow, quietly sobbing

An easy touchdown belied my troubled heart . Anxiety gripped me. I tried to shoulder my way to the plane’s exit door , but a woman in front of me checked my rush, ending hopes of a quick exit from the plane, but

- If she had not, would I have made it in time to say goodbye?

Should I have screeched, ‘My mother is dying, let me out?’

A brother collected me and drove us, and another brother met us

we wept

**

Lying peacefully on hospital sheets,

a gentle smile uplifted her lips, smooth and serene lips

I stroked the back of her hand,

awed

at the exquisite softness of her skin

I ran my fingers over her velvety , sleek and elegant hands

that had loved me, raised me

and amazed me with her artistry.

**

I sat lightly stroking the tops of her hands,

soothing touches filling

my heart

and my memory,

helping me

say goodbye

Copyright © 8/16/2025 by Andrea O. Corwin

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