The ancient man sighed and pushed back his chair,
Cane tapping down hallways known all too well,
Thinking about his empty life and a path once taken,
And wishing his son and daughter would visit.

Once he was a young lean muscular man,
Full of life, smiles, plans and hopes.
An accident took all his dreams away
With his treasured wife on a path once taken.

Another program down in the hall,
Probably more pabulum for the mind,
He wishes they knew minds can be sharp
Even when bodies are so frail.

The food served here is insipid at best.
Nothing to tempt the taste buds.
Bland repetitive meals, but at least
He does not have to see the others eat.

But what a surprise when he walked in the room.
Familiar voices rang out, hi daddy,
Oh the joys of that visit, the surprise on his face
They learned the value of family and a path once taken.

1-26-03
Laura R