Death in the Shadow

In the shadow of the pandemic

Our father lies dying of cancer

His arduous journey almost done.

From far corners we hurry home

To sit vigil, say goodbye.

By plane, by car, we play the odds

Bringing comfort and casserole,

And sadly something else—

Heavy worry-laden baskets

Heaped with fear.  

What invisible enemy clings

To our clothes, our hands?

Is that flush a raging fever?

That tickled throat, tragedy waiting?

What are we bringing to Mother

Besides our grief and love?

Should we come? 

How could we not?

How do we do what must be done?

There are no good answers,

Only tears.

Published in Headline Poetry & Press, March 2020