So how long you been in that home?

Too long.
I don’t know why they call it a home, you don’t know anybody there.
They stuff you so full of drugs you don’t care.
Five kids and not one has a place for me.
They take turns visiting on weekends.
My son forgot whose turn it was today so…you can’t blame him.

My foot struck the rug which opened double doors.
Some folks are short-term, others life and pressure sores.
Stopping at the desk, I’m here to volunteer.
Reminiscing on the past, memories held dear.

Made my way down the hall, put the badge on my shirt
Residents I visit because loneliness hurts.
Their soulmates are gone and their kids are grown.
So many strange faces yet they call it a home.

Dropped and forgotten, out to fend for themselves.
Stuffed bears line the shelves, the workers are Santa’s elves.
I rap the door frame and ask if I can enter.
Little do they know that they’ll become my mentors.

I’d like to share stories, but mostly I’ll listen.
Once they finish their tales I keep with inquisition.
Every once in a while they’ll stop and give a look.
They’ll say, “Nick, are you writing a book?”

“If so, that’s fine, just don’t use my name.”
I promise that I won’t, this isn’t some silly game.
The truth of it all is that you inspire me.
Fifty years with one person, a vet, and retiree.

Is there anything you feel that I should really know?
“Listen to your heart, the foundation will grow.”
“Too often we rush forgetting the now.”
“As a child we’re taught to never stop asking how…”

“…what, why, or where, they’re the questions that prepare
the youth for understanding ‘til it’s on them to share.”
We’re interrupted by a nurse and a cup filled with pills.
Plants shake from fluttering birds on window sills.

They love to watch them, they smile and talk to them.
Confined to wheelchairs, will they ever walk again, I wonder?
The conversation restarts, “Where was I at?”
Listen to your heart.

“Oh, yeah…you know that little voice that you hear?”
“Sometimes it’s all muddied, other times it’s crystal clear.”
Yeah, I think I know that little voice that you speak of.
It says push ahead, curiosity’s the teacher.

“The unknown’s attractive, don’t be so passive.”
“These minutes will pass fast so keep yourself captive.”
“Everyone’s uniqueness is seen when we speak
it’s on us to seek truth until our ability ceases.”

It’s been a couple hours, a blink of an eye.
I know so little, but each day I try.
“That’s all for today son, I’ll see you next time.”
I ponder that advice as I walk in the sunshine.

“That’s all for today son, I’ll see you next time.”
I ponder that advice as I walk in the sunshine.

I ponder that advice.

They’re not bad kids.
It’s not their fault I’m old.
I had a good life, you know…a big life.