#0043

"I don't want you to come along with me-
It will only be a waste of your time."
She smiled bravely, Walking out of the door
And I am left there, breathless, wondering
How time could possibly be more vital
Than being there to find out how you are.

I know that you suffer and cry; you cough
It jolts me wide awake every morning.
You've gone to him with a list; You've lost weight
But there's no way you'll go back to the drugs
I hope that he will make you see some sense
I wonder if he wonders about us;
And whether we're supporting you enough.

You've been my heroine when I was lost.
For years now it's been easy to ignore
This bubbling; under the smiling surface.
You look worn out and I start to wonder
If you are tired of this pretending game.

Is it grief that has caused this awful change?
As you watched him descend gradually deep
Into the sleep that separates him now
Did you take it into your heart to not
Be very far behind him? Please don't go...
This is always a loving daughter's place:

To deny sleep's claim on the ones we need.