I Hate Alzeimers and Dimentia

Are you warm enough Mom?”

I need to say something.
Anything to help the minutes tick by.

You smile.

“What about a drink Mom?
A cup of tea?”

I desperately try to fill that awkward silence.

I know you won’t reply.
You never do.

We sit there.
Saying nothing.

You smile.

“I’m off then Mom.”

A sense of relief.
My duty done for another day.
You don’t even notice I’m going.

You smile

I wave goodbye, for conventions sake.
But it doesn’t mean anything.
Not anymore.

You smile.

But it’s not for me.
It’s merely something you do now.

Smile to hide your confusion and fear.