I AM IN CHARGE
I am in charge of piled papers, recipes
and books
Of the dusty old barn and tack on rusty hooks.
Of the dusty old barn and tack on rusty hooks.
I am in charge of the photos hanging on
the wall
Of three cats, two horses, the dog
laying in the hall.
I am in charge of my wrap-around porch
Its rocking chairs, plastic plants and
tarnished brass torch.
I’m in charge of cooking, the kitchen’s
my domain
Flamingos and magnets, even the
stinkbugs I disdain.
For someone in charge, I’m feeling a
loss of control
New words and schedules and tests take
their toll.
“Your right breast needs another look;
please sign on this line.”
But I’ve been in charge of this thing six
decades, it’s mine!
I think I’ll ignore it and be in charge
for today
The intrusions aren’t welcome, on my
porch I’ll stay.
I’ll watch how the light lingers in
trees and how the hawk flies
And I’ll listen to marsh bugs and gaze
upon star-filled skies.
As I’m finally quiet and hear that
little voice inside
The one that gently whispers, from me
you can’t hide.
Let me be in charge it says; I know you
the best
I made you and formed you and gave you
that breast.
You can trust me, I’ve got you, relax
and let go
I’ve always been in charge, just to let
you know.
I know you’re feeling out of control and
fear is all you see
But when you do, remember I love you
unconditionally.
I accept you with your ups and downs
I’ll hold you up when you think you
might drown.
I’m there when you just need someone to
care
I’ve given you friends when you need to
share.
You’re still in charge of your response
to this trial
You’ve got the reins on whether you cry
or smile.
Just remember, dear child, no matter
what comes
You know where your hope and your
strength come from.
Don’t worry about tomorrow, just live
for today
Put your hand in mine and I’ll show you
the way
Let me be your refuge and strength to
get through
Go ahead, be mad and cry; just remember…
I’ve got you.
I AM in charge.
…for Joan from Cheryl
(2010)
