My parents are tiny now.
They have shrivelled and lost their minds;
separated for more than half a century and by over two hundred miles.
They live in nursing homes cared for by people who have travelled several thousand miles for a better life
of cleaning bums and serving small portions of food to nonagenarians who think they are on cruise ships
or back at school
or dancing in the Tower Ballroom in smart suits and spangled dresses.
'I could have danced all night'.
Quick stepping to the light fantastic as the tide comes in.
It's depressing to see them like this
To see the look in their eyes.
The look of puzzled longing when I say goodbye,
wondering if it will be for the last time.
Joan Bailey
