10 August 2009

Part I: Arranging Shoes


The rhyming verse used to tell this story was definitely not planned. I set out aiming for a whimsical style to relate the events of a morning in October of 2008.

Somehow I found myself wanting to make things rhyme. Soon I recognized a tone similar to my grandfather's WWII poems. In any case, this is my first non-mandatory attempt at this type of verse since grade school. So...





In the entryway the shoes were scattered
leaving not much room to walk.
Waiting for the early morning ride,
all was quiet, there was very little talk.
So down on my knees while still awaiting
I began to arrange the shoes.
To others I would turn over all control,
what else was I now to do?

My mother observed that this was odd
this task I had pursued.
It was not the endeavor that was in question,
rather the timing and the mood.
I paused, reflected and then responded,
"Right now there's nothing I've left to do.
So considering this and future uncertain,
I might as well arrange the shoes."

In the wee hours of the morning,
solemn and quiet was our drive.
Background songs of calm were playing
but the comfort it did not arrive.
In the city on top of the garage we parked
taking in the dawn and the skyline lights.
As my father fidgeted, a bit more I waited
but no stalling would set this thing right.

Inside the hospital to inpatient surgery I went
to follow procedures for admitting.
ID, organ donor, living will, and insurance,
to many things I was committing.
Name, date of birth, and why are you here
confirmed this was not a chance event.
Ready for me they regrettably were not
so into the cold waiting room I went.

To surgery prep, healing hands of friend Betty,
and family well wishes, I soon bid my farewell.
Now alone in a bay of a large cold chamber
on bad thoughts did my mind tend to dwell.
Try as I might to invoke inspiration
my spirit it slumped and my chin it did quiver.
But soon came my way a soft-spoken man,
soothing assurances he did warmly deliver.

In walked a doc three vials in hand
after greetings he confidently proclaimed,
I'm here to make you happy but first I must know
just a few things such as your full legal name.
I'm Wonky Walk Girl from a year of the Snake
who's come due to a bean in her brain.
This unnamed intruder will be getting his due
my alleged smarts I just hope will remain.

Now at this point I must readily admit
that drunk on the rhymes I might be.
In addition to this recollections that follow
possess a distinct lack of clarity.
So wrap up this tale I certainly must
before it all turns to complete whack.
Suffice it to say more events came my way
until all did indeed turn to black.


Part II: Home Improvements (The Recovery Room)

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8 comments:

  1. Your rhyming verse ability is superbly moving. I wish I was so gifted with words and expression and I really like your writing style. Can't wait for your next piece.
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  2. Thank you so much for your compliment Centenniel. I've never written any rhyming verse before and have been a bit self-conscious about putting this out there. And, it took me quite a while! Think I might work on another one just not sure the topic -- we'll see. Thanks again.
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  3. delightful to read. please do write more.
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  4. Thanks Ava -- this rhyming verse writing is completely new to me. Have only done two more -- see "rhyming verse in the labels. It's rather fun albeit confirmation of my old-fashioned nature.
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  5. "I'm Wonky Walk Girl from a year of the Snake
    who's come due to a bean in her brain."

    The bean may be unlovely, but not the description and the subject of the rhyme.

    Judy
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  6. Judy - This was my first rhyming verse attempt -- it took me quite a while but it allowed me a lot of time working through the events of a life-altering day for me. Thanks for the compliment.

    Donna
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  7. Found your post through 'meningomamommas'. Truly a joy to read. Thank you for sharing it.
    Melody
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  8. Melody - glad you enjoyed this. Am wishing you the very best for your upcoming surgery and recovery.

    Donna
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