Brother

We went to church at GKM,
Then birthday lunch I bought for him;
We wandered back to visit mom –
Us boys – her two remaining sons.

Three years I traveled back and forth,
Took her to church – but not the fourth –
For days of travel passed last,
My gift to her I saw was past.

“I’ve had great visits – cycles few;
We reminisced an hour or two.”
Astonished I – how could that be?
When we walked in –  ’twas plain to see –

Encouragers, we have our time;
Encouragement in life is fine –
But when it comes to being there,
Compassion gift’s the needed care.

So I slipped out; to better hands
I left our mom – he understands
Without the effort it takes me
To comprehend her need – to be.

For being takes no bursts of speed,
For being is content to be
Just where one is, with patient store
Of gentleness – his so much more.

So brother, thanks for being there
In these last days – compassion’s care;
I know you’re home again so soon,
But these few days you’ve graced her room –

In ways I cannot be – you see
Compassion part’s not part of me;
My gifts enriched her former days,
But now compassion soothes her ways

Come back again, we’ll hold the fort
Till you return, your love import –
(Perhaps the net will prove to be
The way your gift to her she’ll see).

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