"When the Parent Becomes the Child"



From Pinterest Group Alzheimer's Board

Greg Asimkaupoulos is a pastor who writes thoughtful and funny poems. He gave me permission to post this poem here on this blog and another thoughtful one follows.

When the Parent Becomes the Child

by Greg Asimakoupoulos
July 13, 2012

When I was but a boy of three,
my mother took good care of me.
She cooked my food and washed my clothes
and dressed me for the day.

She helped me tie my laces tight

and tucked me in my bed at night.

She put my needs ahead of hers

and never once complained.

When I fell down or lost my way,
my mom was never far away.
She recognized my helpless state
and made me feel secure.

But now my mom's "the child" in need

who struggles daily to succeed

at little tasks that tax a mind

that frequently forgets.

She needs my help to get around
or look for things until they?re found.
And when her eyes betray her fear,
I hold her trembling hand.

At times her needs can drain me dry,

but when I start complaining why?

I think back to my childhood

and how she cared for me.

Originally published at http://www.partialobserver.com/ . Used by permission.