The Country Celebrant: Poem for Hilda
I have been thinking a lot this week about a friend who has recently lost her Mum. I wrote this poem for her but also for other friends who are losing their loved ones to dementia.
Poem for Hilda
Do not judge me, I am not here
my sentient mind has flown.
I cannot recall your name, your face
but I know your footfall and your scent.
Do not worry that I am sad
I am lost in a fog and do not know it.
You remember my strength and power
I know your footfall and your scent.
Visit me as often as you can
I hold life by a gossamer thread
that stretches and twangs;
but I know your footfall and your scent.
I do not know you today
and never will again, in your terms;
but deep inside I know your smile
I know your footfall and your scent.
Take comfort as you hold my hand,
your warmth warms my heart.
Our shared past flows through your glance
I know your footfall and your scent.