denial.

(intimacy.
suffering.
impending.)

“Hello,” you say. He’s wearing hospital-blue.

(incomplete.
awareness.
gasping for air.)

“Let me take a closer look,” he says.

(incurable.
inarguable.
demise.)

“I’m afraid we have to put her to sleep,” he says.

(distress.
grief.
denial.)

And adds, “It is, of course, your decision.”

(bowel movement.
rest.
our own downfall.)

“It is time to say goodbye.”
He has a syringe in his hand.

(not a sign of life.
acceptance.
passing.)

“You can pick up the ashes at your convenience.
As from next Tuesday.”

(disposal.
mourning.
compassion.)