Leaving Alone

by Terry Adams

When I entered this world
I entered alone, knew no one
They placed me on a woman’s tum
My mother to be knew me

Now it is time to leave, I know no one
Human-like figures around the bed
Covered by hats, goggles, masks, gowns
Gloved hands, distorted words, plastic shrouds

I know no one and no one knows me

I leave this world, I leave alone
With no comfort from those who
Know more than my name

No familiar faces, no touches, no voices
Just the hiss and draw of ventilators
No breath, no future, just despair

No one to hold my hand
No one to ease my parting to a new land