MUSINGS AT DCI

Thrice weekly I’m part of a laundromat scene
When I am hooked up to a washing machine.
Each load takes all morning to finish the run
For a sanitized system when the job’s done.
You may be thinking, “I’d never do that—
The lady is loony, more ‘bats’ than a bat!”
But my weary old kidneys somehow blew a fuse
And a washing machine is what I will use.

Dr. Zekonis is fixing me up,
For I was a poisoned and pitiful pup;
He’s a Lithuanian guru who is wise beyond his years
With a heart at big as heaven as he eases feeble fears.

I did not know three weeks ago, my travel plans might change,
Or that another ‘other world’ the tour group would arrange;
I only know my Travel Guide who’s with me on this bus,
Loves me enough to take the trip with “People just Like Us.’

Like worn rag dolls asleep in our chairs,
Pliable puppets and tired teddy bears,
We cuddle our blankets, as Linus does his,
And patiently nestle through dialysis.

When I am gone don’t eulogize about what I was not,
Or wish me back the way I was, because my ‘bod’ is shot.
I am not sure I did my best, but this much I do know---
I want to leave them laughing when it’s time for me to go.

-- Helen Ewoldsen