Reflection on our Walk

We walk in silence.
Both of us know
you are leaving.

Neither of us can change it.

You have no choice, no say in the matter.
I don't beg you to stay.
That would only make it
harder for you.
You have no choice.

Even though you don't want to leave,
you will keep on going,
keep leaving--me, all of us,
and everything you've ever known,
done, been able to do, loved.

You will keep on leaving
little by little.

And all I can do is
hold your hand,
wait and watch
until you're gone.

You know this.
I know this.

We walk on in silence
holding the knowledge in our hearts
where we don't need words.
We already understand.
Our hands hold on
for our dear life.

                                --May 25, 2016