The Last Mile

Heartburn causes difficulties
for the fellow – getting older they say
as he falters through aging years
high maintenance ways
off to the doctors and such

minor surgeries – cataracts removed
bunions explored
arthritic pain not so pleasant
as feet toil up the stairs once more.
After seventy years
you’d think it should be easy by now
but it’s not –

doctor says no more drinking anymore
just one bottle of beer thirst calls
medications too feisty
and a wife prolongs his last
bus stop when he feels helplessness

proves him wrong she does knowing
not many sleeps left in her man.

© Richard L. Provencher