Holding Hands Poem by John A'Hern

Hands so often misunderstood
Sign language used not always for good
Waved around in angry mode
Waved in hello greetings
Caressing your lover each day
A caress today may wander away
A visit to see those still loved
Stand and watch and pray to above
They are sitting, staring into space
Hands clasped tightly below their waist
Stand in front to block the view
Looking at me, who are you?
Sit alongside holding hands
Smooth them hold them
Tightly as you once could
Caress and trace, memories flood
Silent signal that you are understood
Faraway eyes blink away tears
Are you home today? the question feared
Head turns, eyes meet in recognising glance
Head looks down, hands grip tighter
Do not let go, contact of a fighter
A smile best sign one can know
Feelings from wherever they flow
The heart is bursting with recognition feelings
Stand to leave a happy and sad scene
Panic as hand grips tightly, not letting go
Familiar carers, softly spoken, intervene
Matron so pleased by the scenes
Leaving the scene, zombie state for days and days
A promised return several times
Meanwhile just pray