When Words Mean Nothing

When I miss her now, I think of this and know that although it was a long time coming, she got her wish.

I, a so called poet,

who can burn a blank page

with word rage,

can turn a lively sparkling sea

into a calm, soothing balm.

Who can conjure up a sunrise

or sink the sun beyond a horizon

paint words in colour

on a grey wet day

evoke the scent of a rose

in the throes of midwinter

and melt snowflakes in summer heat.

I can convey all this

and yet

when my beloved Mum

elderly and frail,

ailing and sick

tells me she wants to die,

all I can do is sigh

and tell her I love her.

I have no words

that will bring her a crumb

of comfort 

Reviews

[Patricia Wedel]

Whoa… a Crumb of Comfort… my Mum was a Nutritionist and fed her family lots of Healthy Food. To this day I think of my Mum’s Wisdom.. and yet when the Cancer took over her Liver, she became paralyzed and could not speak clearly. However, the Doctor told us she could clearly understand everything said around her.. so we had to choose our words carefully until she took her last Breath. Chris, your Poem has touched my 💜 Heart. tenderly, Pat

[Chris Shaw]

Dear Pat, thank you for your beautiful review and for sharing your much loved mother with me. Yes I too was told that hearing is the last to go. I was by my brother's side too when he died, along with my sister and sister in law. It's the last thing we can do, knowing they are with their nearest and dearest. Sending love across the pond on a warm afternoon.

Chris

[Elizabeth]

Wow... This poem has left me completely speechless. t's so relatable. I can write lots on paper but can't find words for an actual conversation. Love the clever use of imagery which deceives us at the beginning.

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you DarkMist for your response.

Chris

[Elizabeth]

You're welcome :)

[KCthelastboyscout]

This story is very touching straight From the heart
No matter what occurs your mother has you by her side
When the time comes you will find the right words to inspire her not to give up the fight to live
Sending you prayers

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you so much KC for your kind words. I appreciate your visit.

Chris

[lakinbob]

You don't need words for that; the look in your eyes will give all the comfort she needs. Both my parents are gone now, but I will take the memories I have to my grave.

LB.

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you Bob for your thoughts. Much appreciated.

Chris

[Jon Roggie]

I read this after a couple of anniversaries. A few more happened before that. Your words feel unheard.

[Chris Shaw]

Take care Jon. Thank you for your visit.

Chris

[Davidgeo]

Such is life. Enjoy and destroy... your talents are sound enough. (you're not going to like the rest of this review... but it's very, very true)

I usually watch stupid movies and smoke fantastic marijuana to mitigate the "s**t" between the lines. But, sometimes I pet exotic cats and climb very tall mountains to remind me... (none of this matters doll face).

That's what makes you good... when you forget that you are so. Praise (here) is mostly given so you return it... the only way to truly judge yourself is to not play and/or be a dick.

(you're way too nice to ever know how good you are) --- your best friends here are fake. Your "featured reviewers" here are fake...

Why do you write? (it's not why they do)

[Chris Shaw]

Hello David. Always interesting to hear your take on life. Thanks for your visit. We are all different, that's what I like.

Chris

[Onlyme]

It's always the way. When someone so close is hurting or in pain. You find it harder to express how that affects you deeply. And to make them feel reassured, comforted and loved. When it's easy to say it all in a poem or a story online.

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you Dawn so much.

Chris

[Vivian Gospel]

Words really mean nothing. Actions do.

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you for your response VG. Much appreciated.

Chris

[Dave Brown]

A very difficult time for all concerned
best wishes

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you Dave for your best wishes.

Chris

[Dr. YumnaKay]

It is sad indeed how we (almost) delude ourselves into thinking that words can mean, do mean so much when really situations like these are when no matter what we try to convey, no words seem appropriate. As did your write make me feel, Christine. Such a heart touching piece. My prayers for your mother and you. x

[Ardra]

I wish your mom a speedy recovery.....
Sometimes only words that make sense is that you love them...I guess all other words fade away.....and knowing that you are there for them...and with them...makes all the difference in the world... sending you ((warm hugs))

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you Ardra for your kind words.

Chris