“What is your name?”, I asked a patient in the Alzheimer’s unit where I visit once a month. “My name is *Ellen,” she replied. “But it will change.”
Evidently, there are those who know they have dementia and those who do not. Ellen is in the first category, but seems to take it in stride.
I decided to leave the conversation at that, but wondered what this kindly woman had once done for a living. Judging by her answer, she could have been a philosopher.
To everything there is a season,
A time for every purpose under heaven. Ecclesiastes 3:1
Life is guaranteed to change–just like the seasons. It’s beyond our control; Summer turns to fall and winter is next. All we can do is prepare for the inevitable.
The free acceptance of fate can be daunting. Maybe that’s why there aren’t many “Ellens” posting about themselves with unvarnished honesty on social media.
Vulnerability can be excruciating.
Yet, for my new friend at the Alzheimer’s unit, there seemed to be no fear of embarrassing exposure. Ellen, even in her present condition, is keeping it real.
Kind reader, may you and I do likewise.
Prayer:
God, you know the way I feel, You knew it from the start.
Show me what’s really real; guide and guard my heart. Amen.
Thank you for reading. 🙏❤️Prayers and love.
If you enjoy micro poetry, please visit my blog, All Haiku.
Do you like family friendly short stories? Please visit my blog, Flash Fiction by David
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