Iceni Woman

If I make it to a ripe old age,

just like my Grandma did,

don’t leave me sat alone,

with only memories to speak with.

There’s laughter in this old girl yet,

and joy and love to share.

For though I’m getting long in the tooth,

I’m not without my wits.

When my body’s strength has past,

and frailness takes hold,

please lend me strength as I once did you,

when as a child I kept you safe.

Though my spirit may wander further,

as the years they keep on rising,

it doesn’t mean my marbles,

have scattered far and wide.

Please talk with me and love me,

don’t shrink like violets from me.

In mortal fear lest old age,

may prove to be contagious.

Don’t handle me with roughness,

if I’m to be dispatched off to a home.

Where all the old folks go,

when family decide it’s time.

For though I may be clothed in age,

and wrinkles frame my face,

I’m not without my passions,

or my sorrows or my dreams.

I know that life is busy,

and not without demand.

But all I ask is that you please,

love me as I have you.

And when at last the darkness comes,

as it will for you in time,

don’t leave my hand empty,

with not your warm touch to comfort mine.

Don’t lock me away when it’s my time to die,

with only strangers to cast an eye,

through the door of a ward,

cold and clinical as I fade from life alone.

Don’t shut the windows or draw close the curtains,

then in hushed tones sit,

and discuss me like I have already gone,

while waiting with bated breath for that last shallow rasp.

Let in the sunlight to warm my paper thin skin.

Let the moonlight caress my distant sight.

Smile and keep me company,

and find comfort in the life we shared.

And when at last,

by age I am consumed,

surround me with your presence,

and hold me, please don’t fear me.

Let me have my death with dignity,

let me have my death with love.

Let me have my death in company,

with you my living legacy.