Dedicated to my sister for her ceaseless loving care.
My elderly mother stood by the window, her hand pulling back a section of curtain. βMom, what are you doing up? Itβs nearly 3AM.β
Without turning to look at me, she replied. βIβm waiting for my husband. Heβs returning from the war and will be home any minute.β
I closed my eyes and sighed in resignation. One moment she was lucid, the next her mind clouded over like wintry days. I couldnβt bring myself to tell her the truth again.
βHere, Mom. Lie down. Try to get some sleep.β
She closed her eyes as I silently left her room.
NAR Β© 2023
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The Elephant's Trunk 