Before The Others Knew

In a Torbay hospital bed served by the
pitiful privacy of Oxford blue curtains
propped up pillows providing last comfort

His pallid skin remained warm to touch
peaceful in sleep, no sign of breathing
no response to my weeping

I leaned forward to kiss his forehead,
five times in all, once for myself,
a further four times for absent siblings

My tears spilled on to his cheeks,
as I stood back for one last time
Dad was crying too, with borrowed tears.

Reviews

[Robert Trakofler]

that is just about the finest sweetest most lovely and sad memory you could possibly have dear Chris I know it is peppered with all of the wonderful things you shared with him but the tribute of your love upon his cheeks sends me goosebumps. what a beautiful sharing.... rhyme queen sublime

[Chris Shaw]

Aw Bunny that is one beautiful review you have left me and I am so thankful because I wasn't sure about this one. Love ya.

Chris

[Lisasview]

Good for you dearest Chris for writing your thoughts to share with us all.. Losing ones father is horrible... this I know...
Lisa

[Unspoken poet]

emotional read here, touching and well written

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you choosen. Your comments are valued.

Chris

[Wondering Mind]

Oh dear! Such a touching write.
This is the third poem I reviewed about loss of a loved one.

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you for visiting. My Dad died many, many years ago. I have only just been able to fully complete this poem, but I'm pleased now it is done.

Chris

[jacob erin-cilberto]

this just ripped my heart apart, Chris...
obviously, thought of my dad...and understood how tough this is.

but such a beautiful poems...and he, crying with borrowed tears...
amazing last three lines...
j.

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you Jacob. I wrote this in my head years ago. I have only just had the courage to complete it. Really appreciate your comments.

Chris