Still - Visitor's Poem

by Ruth de Jesus
(Quezon City, Philippines)

It’s been five years since you left
But for us, it was just like yesterday

When I close my eyes I can still see your smile,
Hear your voice and the loving sound
Of your occasional laughter

In your favorite chair
I can still see you sleeping
Although you insist that you were just resting

When I stare at the door of your room
I can still see you coming out slowly
Looking around with a cane in your hand

In your place at the dining table
I still catch you drinking your soup
And complaining if it’s not that hot

When I clean your room
I can still smell the baby powder
Which I put on your back after your bath

And when I come home from somewhere
I still see you waiting patiently
By your rocking chair

Oftentimes, in my dreams
I still see you waving at me
Maybe saying goodbye or come here

It’s been difficult without you, Dad
You are terribly missed
But we know you are happy
And so we will be.

You’re STILL very much HERE Dad
You will stay in our hearts forever
You may have gone to that great somewhere
But loving you will never be over.

Nov 20, '08 6:17 AM