distorted

I started writing my eulogy
On the drive across Nevada
While you were in the hospital
alone,
Because no visitors allowed inside

I changed a couple lines
When I picked you up curbside
And saw your yellowed skin
sickly,
Because the sickness grew inside

I rewrote the whole introduction
As I made you meals
While I wore a face mask
careful,
Because all the world’s a threat

I shifted tone entirely
As I laid on the floor
At least six feet away
distant,
Because you screamed in pain for hours

I put the draft away
When I heard the nurse say
“Stage Four”
distorted,
Because this ends with you.