Reflections from the Slippery Slope

Old woman waiting...

Waiting Room

6:15 AM

Waiting for an MRI

in a sterile room, no windows.

Alone but for an older couple—

She wears a neck brace (a previous injury, I guess).

He wears a wristband (indicating he is the patient).

She takes his hand

entwining their fingers protectively in her lap

and rubs his back in gentle circles.

They do not speak. No need. The die is cast. Brain tumor. Terminal.

Today an MRI to check if the surgery has mitigated the mess enough

for a little more time

together.

At 77, with horrors of my own,

I am beginning to learn of a vast subculture

of those who wait

day after day

in sterile rooms with no windows

For their Fate.