Matriarch Poem by Sheela Toshili

Once a brave matriarch, now a widow with a failing heart
Faltering steps, feeble voice, empty eyes
wait for the final act.

Her three daughters in distant lands
Posses husbands and stately homes
They hover around her, it's her 80th birthday!

Laughter and chatter, speeches and songs
Food and gifts piled high
What a shabby rented hall, older than the birthday girl!

Like vultures eyeing the prey,
with claws sharpened to tear
circle all around their mother

Cold air sans love and compassion
Death, that knows no bonds
Ah! So near and yet so far...........!