(Known also by these titles)
"See Me, Crabby Old Woman, Crabbit Old Woman, An Old Lady's Poem, Kate, Mattie's Poem, A Glimpse Ahead," and more.
Originally published in 1980's by The Pampa News in Pampa, Texas 79065 under the name Kelly Varner Ebel (Married name at that time) as the second part of a "guest column" concerning the current trends in treatment of our elderly. Editor at that time was Larry Hollis. Please write for your copy from the Pampa News archives.
by
Kelly Varner Johnson
(Originally written as "What do you see, children, what do you see?" The rest is pretty much intact as when I first created the work.)
What do you see, nurses, what do you see?
What are you thinking when you're looking at me?
A crabby old woman, not very wise,
Uncertain of habit, with faraway eyes?
Who dribbles her food and makes no reply
When you say in a loud voice, "I do wish you'd try!"
Who seems not to notice the things that you do
And forever is losing a stocking or shoe
Who, resisting or not, lets you do as you will,
With bathing and feeding, the long day to fill.
Is that what you're thinking? Is that what you see?
Then open your eyes, nurse; you're not looking at me!
I'll tell you who I am as I sit here so still,
As I do at your bidding, as I eat at your will.
I'm a small child of ten with a father and mother,
Brothers and sisters who love one another.
A young girl of sixteen, with wings on her feet,
Dreaming that soon now a lover she'll meet.
A bride now at twenty, I have young of my own
Who need me to provide a secure, happy home.
A woman of thirty, my young now grown fast,
Bound to each other with ties that will last.
At forty, my young sons have grown and are gone,
But my man's here beside me to see I don't mourn.
At fifty, once more babies play round my knee,
Again we know children, my loved one and me.
Dark days are upon me, my husband is dead;
I peer at the future, and shudder with dread.
My young's young are all rearing young of their own,
And I think of the years and the love that I've known.
I'm now an old woman, and nature is cruel;
'Tis jest to make old age look like a fool.
The body, it crumbles, grace a vigor depart,
There is now just a stone, where I once had a heart.
But inside this old carcass, a young girl still dwells,
And now and again, my batterered heart swells.
I remember the joys, I remember the pain,
And I'm loving and living life over again.
I think of the years, all too few, gone too fast,
And accept the stark fact that nothing can last.
So next time youthful pride gets the best of you,
Remember that before long you'll be here too.
So open your eyes nurses, open and see,
Not a crabby old woman; look closer, see ME!
By Kelly Varner Johnson
Author notes
We want our words to communicate something. That's very important. My poem has traveled the Internet unbeknownst to me, as anonymous author. I have since tried to send out "the rest of the story." Please, if you find my poem, anywhere, I would love to know where it is now, where it's been and, of course, where it's going. I had no clue of the impact this poem, originally published in "The Pampa News," my local newspaper, back in the latter '80's when I was twenty-seven-years-old, and that it would go global. That's what we want! We all want our work to touch other lives in a positive manner. The entire story concerning this poem is one I'm anxious to share. There are so many ironic twists, it's just . . . shocking. I thank you ahead of time for your information, critiques, comments and so forth. Kelly
Written February 5th, 1987
What did you think
Comments
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As someone who works with the elderly and the disabled this poem really touches my soul to the core. I always see so much in these people that others never see and am always questioned by others as to how I can do what I do. It is because I see beyond what others see that I can do for them. I volunteer countless hours to help these people because they have nobody else who will and can't afford the services they need. They feel just like we feel, they love just like we love, they live just like we live and they deserve just like we deserve. You poem explains all of that very well and does so in such a beautifully graceful tone. Thank you so much for sharing this with the world. I am so sorry that someone has claimed it as their own as it is not fair to you, but I have to wonder that although this injustice has been done to you, if the outcome of it has not outweighed the injustice. By that I mean, has more people viewed YOUR words because of the injustice than would have if it not taken place? I know that doesn't make the injustice just, but sometimes good does come from evil. In this case, I think the person who stole your words just might have done the world a favor and got your message out there in a broader spectrum... of course it isn't fair that people don't know the truth about who wrote it, but that can always be corrected with world publicity... one massive publicity campaign can correct that!
Okay enough rambling from me... sorry about that.
Beautiful write dear heart. May your quill never tire and your talent always shine.
God Bless,
Suzi
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I absolutely agree!
This wealth of good my poem has accomplished far outweighs any injustice. I have found contentment and a measure of peace in that knowledge. I wish it well as it travel onward, though I do wish I could travel with it. Everything happens for a reason. I believe that. Thank you for your kind and comforting words, and for your tireless efforts working with our elderly population. They need us. It does my heart good to know they have you! Thank you so much, Suzi.--Kelly
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So glad to finally
know the author. I saw it a long time ago in a magazine but it is also in one of my BBC. ' More Poetry Please' books and the authors name is given as Phyllis Mc Cormack.
I myself printed off a copy and had it pinned to the notice board in the care home where my mother was a resident.
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I pity Phyllis McCormack (whoever she is) and anyone who is so impoverished that they need to take credit for another poet's creation by copying it under their own name.
We have a word for that. -
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Hi Hugh!
Actually, it's Phyllis McCormack's son who claims his mother, after she died and was buried, was the author of my poem. But, I can't talk to her and ask "Why?" Ms. McCormack never claimed it to my knowledge. Her son did, though, sometime after her death. I can't say this journey hasn't been painful. There are times when it has hurt very much. At the same time, I realize that so many people are getting the message intended and I know that's the blessing in all of this. It gives our elderly men and women a voice and that's what counts. I just have to stay positive and focus on the good.
I'm heading over to read something of your's. Chat with you soon!
Love,
Kelly -
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Dear God! Please don't let Kelly light on one of my "boob" poems! Please steer her towards something more worthy of her attention.
You know that "Dream Children" is one of my favourites.
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Dear Kelly,
I can understand your mixed feelings over the proliferation of your poem in an altered form as "Crabby Old Man" by "Author Unknown" (and I find no improvement over your original poem in this plagiarised 'male gender' version.) It is, however, a tribute to your poetic talent and humane insight that your verses have been copied and published so widely around the world and that the telling message which your words convey (even in altered form) have been so widely read.
The "Crabby Old Man" version came to me, in New Zealand, from a friend in Israel but I had read it from other global sources several times previously. Now I have learned that you are the Author of "Crabbit Old Woman" which is the original version, I find it shocking that so much copying of your words has been published without your knowledge and without credit to yourself as the Author.
I have today attempted, in a small way, to set the record right in my weekly letter which goes out to over one hundred poets and writers worldwide.
I am honoured to have 'met' you as the Author of such an inspired piece of verse.
With applause, admiration and love, Hugh Wyles. 06/09/09.
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Thank you, Hugh!
I'm still working on your letter and will try and get that off to you tomorrow. Sorry I'm so slow, but I often feel as though I'm running, running, running. Lol. You are a sweet man with such a gentle, caring spirit. And I can't tell you how much your words mean to me. This has been quite a journey for me, with its highs and lows. It has often felt like a battle.
There is so much more good that my poem has done which includes driving home the point that our elderly are human beings, of incredible value and deserving of our utmost respect.
My poem has brought some of the most loving, caring and just incredible people--like yourself--into my life. For that, I am so grateful! Thank you!
Love to you!
Kelly
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i like it a lot
my mom had Alzheimers and i used to visit her in a nursing home. and, i 'saw' so much of what you wrote. *(Check a John Prine song out sometime--not sure of the name of it, maybe a 'google' would get it for you. It speaks of an old woman and the narrator questions about someone behind her eyes. Great song).
i liked your fireflies poem too.
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There are many accounts as to the history of "See Me," which is the original title of my poem. And many claim to have either written it or they know who did. It traveled all the way to Scotland and has gone on from there. I was a young woman when I wrote this as part of a guest column for The Pampa News concerning the treatment of our older generation. I have my own original copy of the publication. I worked in a nursing home when I was a teen.
There's not much more I can say other than what I, personally, know. You are welcome to believe whichever story you wish. What matters is what I know.
I've already researched all the other claims so, again, there's nothing more I can do but this.
Best to you,
Kelly -
Yes, I wrote this poem. Can you point me in the direction of this film?
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Here is a copy of an article on the history of this poem. It was written by a nurse on the Geriatric Ward of Sunnyside Hospital in Montrose in the early to mid 1960's. There are nurses who have been carrying this poem around in their purses and taping it to their lockers since you were about five years old.
http://www.empowerthespirit.com/articles/Kate.pdf
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Have you really convinced yourself that you actually wrote this? You claim to have written it in 1987, yet there is a film of this poem being read in 1980.
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Another exselent poem Kelly, old peaple have so much inside them its no wonder they get forgetfull. Espesialy these days when things have changed so much. Their old worlds to a point have become obseleat. I've always thought old peaple were much more respected in the past due to their wealth of knolege.
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Thank you, Reese. I know we, both, have a soft spot in our hearts for our older generation. There was a time when they were highly respected for their experience and wisdom.
Often causes me to ponder that the state our world is in now could be, in part, because we stopped tending to that wisdom born of experience and years.
Thank for stopping by to read. Appreciate you, Dear Friend!
Kelly
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I was idly googling "allpoetry" and came upon this on the second or so page... as for the poem, I googled one of the lines (in quotes) and came up with an endless number of links, with many different takes (one person said it was written by a crabby old man!) Interesting how something can travel the Internet... new vehicle for something age-old, I believe... as for the poor old woman, she should have had photo's on the wall posted on who she was each decade, then the nurses would have seen a more complete person... unless she was like me, and had no good pictures of herself!
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I'm one of those who first read your poem in an email forwarded to me way back in about 1996 or 97. At that time it was credited to an old woman in ... England I think... purpoted to be found among her belongings and then was relayed by nurses to be published in a medical newsletter/magazine of some kind.
It was after I'd joined allpoetry in 2001 that I found out it was actually your writing. At the time, I IM'd you about it (you probably don't remember that) and you were happy that it was being appreciated by other readers.
I later posted one inspired by yours but not nearly as good as yours. Mine is based upon my own experiences.
I'm glad to see you bringing this to us all again. It's a poem which I have thought of often, very often
This is a poignant piece, Kel, a beautiful tributer to old age.
Dee
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Looks like this one has already become a true CLASSIC
OUTSTANDING - Excellent Writing
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Such a good poem and well written in every sense no wonder many have tried to claim it as their own.
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Thanks, but it does border way beyond frustrating . . .
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Thank you so much, Von! Appreciate all the help I can get. Love and hugs your way!--Kel
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Thank you so much, Von. Many are working right now to get the poem situated. I absolutely love the thought that so many others are gleaning from it, but there are so many that are claiming copyright, and I just can't go for that. Thank you for your response! And, God bless you!--Kel
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Hello Kel - I received this by e-mail this morning here in Australia - acredited to a 'little scottish lady'. I took the opportunity to put the 'sender' in the picture and told her about you tracking your poem around the world.
I think this particular poem of yours will keep on appearing for many years to come.
Von
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Hi Symphony! I'm so pleased your mom enjoys my poem. And, thank you for the sites that are using my write! Unfortunately, I've uncovered even more, one is using it for his website and has claimed copyright ownership. I love touching people with my writing, but if they would only ask, I wouldn't hesitate to allow this poem to be used. I just wish they would give proper credit, but they don't. I really do not know what to do here, but I want to thank you for alerting me to even more sites using my work. I always want to "touch" people in a special way, and I love the elderly so much. They needed this. Bless you and keep you, and give your mum a great big hug from the author.--Love, light and peace!--Kel
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Although, perhaps you should check out the following and claim legal ownership :s
www.orderofthewhitelion.com/Poetryetc@/Poetry/Remember.html
jmm.aaa.net.au/articles/15589.htm
boards.sonypictures.com/soapcity/archive/index.php/t-871.html
www.fourwinds10.com/news/14-spiritual/D-inspirational/2005/14D-04-02-05-crabby-old-woman.html
www.emmitsburg.net/humor/archives/heart_warming_stories/heart_6.htm
www.jr.co.il/articles/old-lady.txt
sblom.com/oldlady/
www.timegoesby.net/2004/09/crabby_old_lady.html
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Oh my god Kelly ... wait until my mum finds out I've found a way of contacting the author of that poem - she absolutely loves it. She found it online, or had it emailed to her a year or so ago, or something like that and thought it was stunning - printed it off and gave a copy to each of her nine brother and sisters, and one sister in particular who has a particular talent for inventing opera singing,and acting out poetry has done this many a time and it goes down a bomb all the time!
Also, yes, as Albert said, there was a reply written by a nurse, and printed in our local newspaper over here anyway, frm a nurses' point of view to the 'crabby old woman' - absolutely brilliant!
You ... are ... a legend!!!! -
This one is always worth another read - for many it is a meaningful view of our future - It can never be posted in enough places - Mind you nurses do a great job - did you ever see the nurses reply to this poem - also very good - Albert.
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Excellent!
Wonderful poem, Kel! Well done! I understand why it has been distributed and seen so many places all over the world! A compassionate plea to see senior citizens as the interesting people they really are! Bravo!
Love,
Maureen
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thank you for writing this
it reminds me of my grandma i remember a time when she could do anything but now it seems that she can do less and less but she is still the same person i have known all my life
thank you for entering my contest and im sorry i didnt comment until now
Goddess Bless
Megan -
Heheheh...Kelly,dear this was WONDERFUL.
A fabulous thread of wisdom, compassion, and forthright delivery!! I just loved it.
Very good in form and flow!! Thank you, Warmly, CookieZeal
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provocative
well copywrite this and let it travel more.it has a vast universe that it needs to cross.the treatment of the elderly is one of those problems that span the universe and is not prejudiced.it is vapid in it's fervor.so even if you didn't know it,it has served a powerful purpose.to know that you have accomplished your goal of touching people once again.i say once again,because I think you have done it,countless times before.very provocative write. -
Wonderful
Hi - My daughter had this poem as part of her homework when she was at Kowloon Junior School here in Hong Kong - about twenty five years ago. . .Then it was called "A crabbed old woman" There is a hospital in UK that claims the copyright – A nurse of that hospital also wrote a replying poem explaining their duties . . . ( a bit like my poem “ Eyes of an Angel” How wonderful to discover the author. . .On the net it is usual anonymous . . It is an amazing and inspiring poem
Regards Albert
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Thank you, Kimmie, and bless you, from the inner-most parts of this beating heart!
Kel
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Another piece worth pondering over at such an early hour. I've worked in a "care" facility also for different groups of individuals that are trapped in the cages of their bodies. All too often I've seen ppl working within a "care" industry that fail to note the individuality locked inside and see only a patient grappling onto chairs with gnawing athritic bones.
You've done such a great job with this one. I wish you all the best in the further publication endeavors of this (and of your other works of course). An admirable topic put so perfectly tailored into words onto these pages.
best regards,
kimmie -
You're very welcome, Von. Please let me know the name of the volume so I can add it to my publications/credential. I'd also love to have a copy when available. Let me know the price, and how to pay for it, and we'll go from there. It seems harder when my works are printed out of the country. But, fingers crossed, it can be done! My best to you and others on this worthwhile venture! --Kel
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Hello Kelly
It's been quite a while since I first located the owner of this particular poem. I mentioned waaaay back about an Anthology written for and by the residents, family and staff of the Nursing Home where I work. We have begun our collection and the response is slow at the moment but will gain momentum as word gets around.
As you kindly gave us permission to use your poem I have taken a copy for inclusion. We hope to have the book printed and available by christmas this year (fingers crossed).
Thank you once again
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Thank you, Patrick! I do love your heart, and the person you are! Hugs --Kelly
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poetry stars****************
This should be prominantly posted in the lobby of every nursing home in America. the body breaks down but the heart and soul still grow stronger with a modest effort at compassion, which of course becomes its own reward. This is a very loving and true commentary on our treatment of the aged. -
Thank you, Von and Damon for your refreshing, insightful comments. And, Von, I very much would appreciate you sending me my poem/comments, and would also appreciate knowing what nursing home it is being shown in. I'm creating a 'history' of the poem, of where it's been, where it's going, and you'd be so amazed at how far it has traveled. You certainly have my permission to publish it in the anthology with the by-line of Kelly Varner Johnson, and I'd be interested in purchasing a copy once completed. How interesting! I wouldn't have had a clue, when it was first published in the Pampa, Texas paper in the 80's of where it would go, the people it would touch, no, no clue in the world. But, I'm so glad it has touched hearts, as that's exactly why I write! *Hugs* Kelly
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don't touch it!
Kelly this is wonderful; it is a great write that says a lot. People should have to have a handicapped child or older parents before being hired to work in (an old folks home.) Being allowed to work with older people would be a privledge. The job should be one that pays well instead of barely enough to get by on. The poem is very well done. It is one that I like a lot.
Damon D. Brewer
Edited by Damon on Jan 21. -
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I have read and re read this poem so many times. I work in aged care and I know what it can be like from the nurses point of view too. I love my 'oldies' I care about them, get to know them spend as much time 1:1 with them as time allows. That's the crunch -time- - our staff numbers and shift hours have been cut and 'extra' jobs been dished out. consequently a lot of things we do for and with our residents is on our own time. Some are fortunate to have loving families who take them out when possible, do everything that can be done for them. Others have no family at all, we are their family. The saddest thing for me is to see a resident waiting for their family to visit, hoping to see them but they don't come. It's us that have to pick up the pieces, to give a cuddle, make a cup of tea. In between times rush around with backsides on fire so that we can enter the next room, quietly and smiling. In our discussion groups, which include dementia sufferers we start the ball rolling by talking about childhood, something they can all join in with. We learn so much from them, we laugh, we cry, we learn.
I have also read a reply to your poem. I have seen it titled Crabbit Old Woman, I'll see if I can locate it and send it to you. I have also written poems about the Aged - life, love, loss, Two hearts -one love was inspired by two people who fell in love at an age when they thought it would never happen again. wonderful. At the Nursing Home where I work there is a copy of your poem on every floor, and it was to be included in our own anthology which I am at present now working on. In time I would like your permission to include it and enter your name. It's so good to know that it is no longer an anonymous poem. Anyone who cares what happens to our Aged citizens has my deepest respect. Regards Von -
Happy Thanksgiving to you too, Vicki! Don't work too hard, and keep healthy and happy. My love to you! God bless! ;)Kelly
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don't touch it!
The message heard loud and clear as a bell. With a very powerful message and a truth we should all ahere too. If we would but look into someone eyes, and see their soul before we judge. We would be much better off for sure. I wanted to stop in and wish you a Happy Thanksgiiving. Working two jobs not on much anymore. -
Externally, we may change, but eternally, I believe we are forever the same, except for our growth, in love, light and knowledge, it's just our bodies that change, not the spirit within. Thanks, Ashes! Appreciate you reading my writes! ;)Kelly
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We are always changing no matter how much we think were staying the same you bring this out well. -
Thank you, Dee, Sally Faye, Terry and Myra. I'm so pleased to learn that I am not alone in this manner of thinking. You, who have commented, are incredibly beautiful people to me! And, you all are going on my 'favs' list. You have hearts! Warm, incredible, compassionate hearts! Made my day, as you can tell! Lol! Love to you all! Can you feel it? ;)Kelly
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Thank you, Kelly, for directing me here ... What a wonderful topic, with all these comments! It'll keep me busy LOL Hugs, Myra -
don't touch it!
This is a great visionary approach at life. Really enjoyed
..............................BEAUTY.........................
A vision of beauty should ne'er see first sight
T'is held of the heart....projecting it's might.
Edited by coffee-agh on right now. -
excellent
This is a touching,makes a person ponder and wonder what is really going on in those we think we have lost. Maybe we are lost in our thinking. -
don't touch it!
I'm so glad to see this posted here and to finally know who the author is. I'm one of those who read this in a forwarded message to me from someone, somewhere recently. I didn't know until now where it originated.. the story I got with my email was as you stated above It touched me so much, thinking it was written by this old woman, and now it touches me even more knowing that it was written by a young woman who can hold so much understanding and wisdom in her heart. Thank you.
I have a poem along the same lines as yours, though not so eloquent as yours, titled 'when i die'
lol... I think my age may be catching up with me because now that i think of it, I have some others on the subject of age, though most are a bit of a lighter vein...'Who Says?', 'On Getting Old...a rambling', 'yesterdays' and 'Sunset'...geesh... didn't realize there were so many...
anyway, maybe you'd like to check out some of them. Believe me though, I don't always write on this subject... as you will see if you decide to read more.
Thank you so much for reading and commenting on 'Love...the meaning of life' ...your comment led me to you, I'm sure glad.. and I'll be reading more of your work.
Dee
Edited by catz on right now. -
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wow.... i mean... what else can I really say...? That was amazing. I'm like in a stunned silence...
J~~~ -
Thank you so much, Elyse, Rubee and Ed, for the sweet comments on this write. You might already have, or you will see it floating around the Internet with a story of where it has traveled; they call it 'An Old Woman's Poem,' no author name but have dubbed the old woman as the authoress, or something like that, so I've also sent out the rest of the story, and the completeness is just awesome. When this was published in the mid-eighties, I never thought it would end up in the pocket of an old woman in Scotland, and make such an impact. Our words are powerful, and they can aid others, even heal. We should never forget that. Love to you all! ;)Kelly
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don't touch it!
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don't touch it!
Kelly..what an awesome eye opener!!! I'm glad this somehow made it's way around the internet because it is worth being read by all!! I don't think anyone could have said it any better than this...this is the most fantastic write!!!! Hopefully this will help people to treat the elderly with a lot more respect and seek their wisdom instead of treating them like children...a truly fabulous write!!! -
Thank you, Darmok, Sprite and Maureen for your refreshing comments concerning this write. I'm so pleased to learn of others who feel as I feel toward the treatment of our elderly. And, Sprite, bless your friend's heart! I'm glad he has you because I can't imagine being paralyzed and having to rely on a button to save my life, and Maureen, bless your mother's heart, and yours too. Yes, she is a valuable person, no matter the age, and she raised you as well as contributing to society, but nobody the efforts of those who have gone before us, and that's pretty sad. Your mother is a human being, above all else, living, breathing and alive. And, she deserves so much more than what she's getting as far as other people and even the medical community. As a matter of fact, this book I'm ghost-writing for a renowned pain specialist is allowing me to devote an entire chapter to the lack of proper treatment of our elderly. Often, when sick, in pain, or even dying, they are just sent home with a bottle of pills to make them more comfortable. Even if they're not dying, still doctors won't provide the same care and attention to them as they would you and I. I've witnessed so many cases of this, that it's beyond belief, but I want to bring it out into the public, and I intend to do just that. Already, this book is going to be controversial, and if any doctor gets wind of what's actually in it, we know they will try to block its publication, because it's very direct and one chapter is aptly titled, 'The Hypocritical Hippocratic,' so you get the point. We want to change the way patients are treated by so-called professionals who only end up in medical school for the lucrative aspects instead of because they have compassion toward people and want to help them. We're all paying a heavy cost, but especially our elderly, who have every right to a good quality of life as any other human being. Soooo. Okay, I'll stop, but you can see where some of my passion comes from. Thanks again all!;)Kelly
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excellent
I was sitting in the waiting room while my elderly mother was in the emergency room. Two girls sat across from me. One said to the other, 'Is there anyone else in the ER?' And her friend said, 'Just some old lady.' I wanted very much to say, 'That's not 'just some old lady, she's my MOTHER!' I spent many a day in the nursing home seeing some nurses treating her like the funny, lively person she was, and seeing others treat her like 'just some old lady'. I loved your poem! Very important message in it! No matter how old and feeble we get, we still deserve to be treated with kindness and respect. Kudos to those (like you) who know how important it is to make that extra effort to get to know the person behind the wrinkled facade...it is well worth the effort! This poem is going on my Favorites List!
:o) Maureen -
don't touch it!
Oh, Kelly, this is marvelous! I have worked in the lab of a hospital before, and gone from room to room drawing blood. So often I would come into rooms where old people were left forgotten and in situations of neglect that boiled my own blood. I would ask the nurses why they didn't try to put things right and their answers would be that the patient would just do it again (ie. take off their gown, bounce on the bed) The dignity that was lost reduced the character of everyone there by half...Also, I had a very dear friend who was paralyzed from a brain disease so that he couldn't speak or move anything except his right hand. I came in one day and he was choking and his eyes looked terrified...the call button was by his LEFT hand! After that incident I posted a large sign explaining that he wasn't an object, he understood everything because he wasn't mentally incapacitated, and he HAD to have the button by his left hand...sigh...why can't people see the ill and old as the beautiful souls they are??? Brava.
Edited by Sprite on right now. -
excellent
Hi KV, loved your poem and the message that feels so dear to your heart. My 16 yr old daughter voulunteered at a convalescent home for a year and now works there. She's an Activities Coordinator. She get to know all the old folks there and they her. I listen to her stories and often see the welling of tears behind her eyes as she speaks respectfully of them, of their happiness of their sadness of their passing grace. The amazing thing about her and choice to work there is, I know she does her best to be a cheerful focus for them, that she really cares so very much that they are treated well and with understanding of their forgetfullness and fraility. The empty beds are a crushing realization for her, as she learns how close she has become to some of them, all of them...and their passing marks another loss of a friend. I'm so very proud of her as she is maturing so fast, and developing character one would envy.
-Darmok
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Edited by Darmok on right now. -
No! It's never too often. Read as much as you want, visit as often as you like! I do the same thing. There are many poets on this site who inspire me, and I read certain poems again and again for inspiration. Never say sorry! You're always welcome, Natalia, anytime.;)Kelly *Hugs*
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oh oooops kelly to often eh????? I am sorry -
Thank you, Natalia, and I must say, I've been very touched by the comments people have left here, including yours, because it lets me know that others feel this way, and perhaps, there is a chance for change in regard to our elders. I hold that flame of hope, at least! Thank you for stopping in! And, so often. You're no longer company--you're family now! Lol!;)Kelly
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excellent
I can't stop reading this one it is an excellent piece I tell ya utterly brilliant -
don't touch it!
You know what? this is so sad but SO true. I care for the elderly have done for 4 years now. You get all the new ones coming in and thats what they see!! an elderly man/woman, not saying I never when I first started either but I gave it time for me to get to know them and also for them to know me..you could say that about the other way round...they see us not always as individuals but as people who get paid to be there!!!which is not always the case!! and some resent that and takes alot for them to trust you for what you are and not just the carer to do for me that I can't!!! I actually know my residents by heart!! and these people are amazing people to know!! you learn a hell of alot with them and I just wish more and more would give them the chance to show thier true colours!!!!! another amazing write Kelly well done!!!!
Edited by Lost soul on right now. -
Thanks Shadow. I love to rhyme, but I enjoy dabbling in free-verse as well. Rhyme is much tougher, more challenging to pull off, while holding on to the message, and without it sounding forced. I love the challenge, so I write mostly rhyme. Thanks for you insight and understanding into this piece. We all will be there one day so why not pave a new, smoother road while we still can?--:)Kelly
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excellent
I like this because it reminds us that the person we are today is always changing. And the good healthy we have we may lose. And so many other lessons. Others have marveled about the rhyming pattern. That is good you have that structure. It works well in your subject matter. -
Great insight you have, rummery78, as this is what I, too, believe. The Native-Americans greatly respected their elders and held them in high esteem, learning valuable lessons and even how to deal with certain circumstances as experience had taught them. Wish we could have that same respect for our elders, but we tend to put them away, closed off from the world, and that's so terribly sad, because they have so much to offer us, and yet, we refuse to accept their incredible wisdom. Such a waste!:(
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don't touch it!
A poem that tell the journey of life and experiences, don't judge a book by its cover or the winkles on the person's face. Age is experience and wisdom. Great poem to teach the youth to respect their elders. -
Thanks, Vince, this piece has given many of our elders a bit of peace, a sparkle of hope--it's posted in hospitals and nursing homes around the world and was published in a medical magazine in Dundee, Scottland. Don't know how it got that far, but we never know where our words will travel, and who they will affect. Thanks you for reading this again. Appreciate it!;)Kelly
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don't touch it!
ive read this piece several times....yet i cannot formulate the words to give this piece justice....
except for thank you for sharing this wonderful insightful piece with us.
ViNce -
Ramble away, Scat, as I agree head on with you on this. It's very refreshing to have received the comments I have from you and the others on this write. Keeps my faith going in humanity. Yes, 'beings full of life and stories.' Thank you, that was beautiful!;)Kelly
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excellent
yes this is so spot on - I'm sure I've read this before and commented but maybe not - I go madder every day :) I often see and think - want to know people not for the box they exist but the dreams they hold deep within and I feel so much for people especially as a child thinking everyone must love each other and be good to meet - alas it is not so but we shouldn't stop looking and wanting to touch each other as unique beings full of life and stories :) sorry I ramble :) -
You're so welcome, Bebo, and thank you for sharing an endearing part of yourself with me. I like who you are and what you represent. You're a good person, and I mean that sincerely!*Hugs*--Kelly
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don't touch it!
what a wonderful write!! My mom used to work in a nursing home,(adminstrator) anyway, I guess I was about 12 or so and I'd go there after school and wait till she was off work to go home. I'd sit and talk to all the little old people and play cards, and give them gum, they thought that was the best part, gum. LOL
I'd walk around with them in the court yards and just really giving them someone to talk to. It was always so sad to hear them say their families don't come to see them anymore and the nurses was mean to them. I'd run and tell on every nurse that did anything to one of them. LOL I got a few of the nurses in trouble. There was one lady I really liked, she put her jewlery on everyday, and her make-up , she'd say I may be old and I probley can't make it to the bathroom always, but a real lady will fix herself up. LOL Wow I loved her. When she died, I was left a necklace, ring, earrings, and a pin. I still have the jewlery at 30 yrs old. I will never part with it. Thanks for your write, and bringing back a good memory. :) -
Lol! I am seriously laughing! I'm so sorry, but you are cute! I'd dry those tears if I was there! Gotta go now. Can't shake these giggles! Here I go again! And, you are welcome! Thank you too, needed to hear from you, I guess. Hmmm.;)smile--Kelly
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neutral
that was soooo beautiful,
I am feelin a little teary eyed now,
thank you, I wholeheartedly thank you,
joe -
don't touch it!
Yea, I have a lot of stories. It is bad when you have ppl. there because it is there job. Sigh. well written. -
Andrew, you're just getting to old! Lol. Reminders never hurt, though, do they? Thanks.--Kelly
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neutral
I read this one before, when I was younger.
:-)
Andrew -
Claire, you are an absolute sweetheart! Thanks for the kind words; always appreciate you!--*Hugs*--Kelly
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don't touch it!
An excellent write - very well done Kelly
You got talent :)
Claire xx -
Thanks, Tina and Twiggy. Your comments made my day! Bless you both!--Kelly
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neutral
insperational -
encouraging
very insightful & inspiring. So true...... -
Thanks, Shattered, I had to ponder too, and my ponderings came about in this write. I'm glad you enjoyed it.
Kelly -
i really enjoyed this, Kelly. it's a beautiful, endearing write. i love your message here. gives me something to ponder :-)
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Thanks, Tiger and Andrew, and you're both absolutely right in your comments. Couldn't agree more. And, sometimes, we need something that hits hard in order to make us think correctly. I certainly know I get thumped on the head time and time again. Ouch! Okay, okay!;)
Kelly -
This is very hard hiting, alas we all fall short at times, when it comes to dealing with others, and this is a very good reminder of that.
Excellently written. Impressive. Andrew -
this is a wonderful story-message, beautifully written...flows like a dream in the reading. i have seen this happen over and over again with the elderly. my mom is blind and disabled as a result of 4 strokes...i am her caregiver, and when she goes to hospital, i stay with her...but i tape up pictures of her over the bed...before her illness, as she was quilting, cooking, gardening, playing with her grandchild and her cats...then a small sign that says...'i cannot tell you, but this is who i am'...your poem has really touched my heart, more so than i thought words ever could... thank you...
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Thanks Snagglepuss for the insightful comment, and you are so right, one small kindness is like throwing a tiny pebble into a still pond. The ripples spread out in never-ending circles, just like every word uttered--it travels into space, into the unknown, forever present. That's how kindness is. When we show one act of kindness to one person, that one act can cause a chain reaction that travels, and often we have no clue of the impact our one act had, nor the people's lives it touched, and, perhaps even, changed. That, alone, is incredibly profound, and, yes, rewarding. Thanks for stopping by. Hope you read more of my work--I think you might enjoy my words. Thanks again.
Kelly -
an absolutely delightful well written poem, sometimes the smallest of kindnesses make the biggest impacts and the joy that is created by helping others we hardly know is profoundly rewarding
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Wow! This gave me chill bumps. You did well, Sprite, by this woman, and you received a treasure in her recognition of you and your kindness. We are all connected, but most of us just don't realize that, also that one kind act can travel a great distance and have such a wonderful impact on so many people, and we might not know that, but it happens. I always strive for this, and apparently, you do too. Thank you for your story, and for making my day! I am really glad to know you! Thanks.
Kelly -
The sentiment and the poem are terrific! I used to work in a hospital and saw so much indignity and human disregard. Patients were often treated as if they were not there...I went for awhile to a comatose patient to draw her blood work (that was what I did) and would talk to her, telling her who I was and what I was doing. I tried to be as gentle as if she had been awake. One day, on another ward, I walked into a room saying hello like I normally did, and a voice said hello back. When I saw it was the same woman, before I could say anything except it was good to see her awake, she called me by name and told me how grateful she had been that I had treated her with kindness. She recognized my voice! Oh, God, she had known about everything that had gone on. I was stunned and ten times as happy to know that I was not one of the people who had made fun of her size or condition, or treated her roughly, because that was not who I was. But, I was terribly sad she had had to be a silent witness to all of it.
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Lol, Doug, you are too funny! As well as insightful! Keep those words coming. You make me laugh when I really need it. Thanks.
kvwriter/Kelly -
well... it just made me think about something i have not thought in a long time... ya know those native americans... well their elderly people have great wisdom and are capapable of giving guidance... in the us today the elderly are uncapable of being productive to the ecomomy so they get treated horribaly and this treatment leads them to their feelings of worthlessness... i am not saying that all feel this way but i think i would feel the same when it hurts to run or take of my shoes... but i would love to be looked at for my great wisdom...
when i am 60 i am becomeing a monk -
Thanks, Dali, I'm glad you enjoyed this one. And, I hope my other pieces touch you in a similar way. Thank you for the kind comments and I'll be visiting your sight soon.
kvwriter/Kelly -
Great job, Kelly. You told this story so well, and stuck with the rhyming scheme. Impressive imagery, keep it up. I look forward to making my way through the rest of your writing.
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Thanks, H2whoa, Birchwood, Burnt, Silent Wolf, Barjo, for your wonderful comments. I'm glad you enjoyed the message behind this, as it's close to my heart. No, I'm not old, but I've seen firsthand what happens to many of our elders and it's become a sad part of our culture. Very sad. If you enjoyed the 'story-telling' poem, you might enjoy 'Spit.' But, beware, it's not at all what you're going to expect from me after reading my other 'sweet' stuff, but we all need diversity. And, I love to write it all, even humor. Thanks again, all of you.
Kelly -
A traditional big 'Thankyou' for your readable, story-telling & Talented writing!
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Oh my, it really puts a prespective on life. It brought a tear to my eye in an emotionless time, stunning.
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