Hall
Listen With Your Heart
Poetry



                                                 THE BEHOLDEN TREE

Before, I do not believe you knew,
How I dislike being beholden to you.
Everything you do for me I appreciate,
Even if you unintentionally make me wait!

You know I’ve always made my own way…
Now, there’s so little with which to pay
My whole life’s been placed on a shelf,
I can no longer care for myself.

Not even able to put on my own shoes
Couldn’t be worn, were it not for you.
You even have to help me into the tub,
Then give me a great, soothing backrub.

It’s mine, and not your place,
To wash my hands and face!
And I really don’t think it’s fair
I can’t even brush my own hair.

My mind knows what my mind does not…
The right words don’t seem to come out.
And everyone always has to wait,
For me and my slow, shuffling gait.

When the day is gloomy and dreary,
I often feel so awfully weary…
Then, glancing at the time I know,
You will soon be here, face aglow

Bringing some new wonder to share with me
Waking sleepy memories for me to see
What a wonderful caregiver you are
I know you must be the world’s best by far




Hall                                                             -2-
Listen With Your Heart
Poetry

I’m lucky to have you caring for my needs
But the Beholden Tree has too many seeds
Now take this perfume, such a small gift,
Or you and I may begin a huge rift.

For material things I haven’t much,
Property, cars, jewels, and such
In such worldly goods I have become poor,
Take my gift, leave me beholden no more.

Patricia L. Hall 1992

Dedicated to:  Elizabeth Currie, my friend,
                        for the gifts of insight,
                         love, and friendship.