tenderly
I placed it in her hand
the last rose
the last flower
from the summer garden of our life
she touches the petals to her lips
smiles
and they drive her away
disappear
and she’s gone
oh, how my heart aches for one more kiss
to touch her forehead to my lips
to slowly breathe in the woman
the rose that captivates my soul
but the road is empty now
I’m left alone
wandering a winter garden of memories
tio stib
You might also enjoy: This Child Who Once Was Woman; My Dementia Diary
Travels with Tio 
Tio, I am so very sorry. So sorry for the losses you are experiencing. As you write, I see the time coming when you must say goodbye. But. You have had and still do, have love. Though we’ve never met, my heart goes out to you and I wrap you in arms of compassion.
Thank you.
Tio, my thoughts are with you. And after another re-read, I will get back to you on your book. Your writing makes me wish I could write more about my hospice nursing days. You have a uniqueness in your writing. Thanks always for sharing. wanda
Thank you for your kind thoughts.