A Few More Days

Longing for the serene mind
that soothes the flapping flag
frayed with all these thoughts
bandaged again
with gauze and cool ointments
into the core of the wounds
carried from day to day.

Tip-toe from one cut
or gash to another bloody tear
and place the back of the hand
gently on the heat of the infection
until the skin is comforted
and relief is obvious.

Hold my hand
and tell me lovingly
that the end is not so near
that we can't find our way
toward joy
for a few more days
and let the sun
glow
lovely on
our cheeks as we drift
into sleeping
for a little while.