The least I can do

In the last years I wonder
Why I have to do this
Visit in the nursing home
Now that your mind is gone
And you don’t recognize me
Haven’t I given enough
All my life these last years
Taking care of you
But I suppose I have to visit
Guilty about how often might be right
And what to say anyway
Besides hello and pat your hand
Squirm some in the uncomfortable chair
Assume the odd position bending in and down
To make enough eye contact so this little time spent
Is meaningful to whom
So I tread the humid hallway
Smell meals served over time
Walk in and sit
Touch your hand
Look at your eyes
Whisper hello
And cry for us both