Every little help

Parental role reversal

A trip up to Tesco’s

A visit with my maw,

Using the excuse to get messages,

As a chance to get out the door.

 

I can see it as we amble,

The pain she’s trying to hide,

The fractures in her ribs,

The bruising in her side.

 

But perhaps the biggest scar,

Is the one we can’t see,

The one she’s trying not to admit to,

Her ageing vulnerability.

 

I can see the roles reversing,

It’s now her taking my hand,

There’s a tremble in her fingers,

And her worn gold wedding band.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It’s me now leading her,

Down the grocery aisles,

Picking up our favourite treats,

That are bound to bring a smile.

 

 

We trundle back towards home again,

Laiden with our bounty,

Put the kettle on and sit,

And enjoy the fruits of our outing.

 

All I want to see again,

Is her smile, not so glum,

Even now, I’d be lost without her,

My dear beloved Mum

Reviews

[jacob erin-cilberto]

wow, yes, went through this with both my parents...the role reversal...we never imagine it will come when we are younger and they are still forceful...but then it happens...and it feels very strange. I relate to this.
j.

[Bluebird]

Thank you. Glad you could relate