Assisted Living
Nan’s mother told her
she would not die from rust;
rather, she will pass away
when her life is all used up.
Her mother would live on
in her own home until she fell
out of it at ninety-three,
more than twenty years later.
Nan always said advice has to fit
the stage of life you are living in. Now
a nonagenarian herself, these words
are inspiring her. Nan has taken up
oil painting, bead making, praying on
rosary beads, calling neighbors by name.
After her husband of sixty-two years
gave up his spirit, she went to the cafeteria
at breakfast; the whole room came over
to extend condolences. Her heart heard
God’s promise—my house has many rooms,
I will prepare a place for you.
*
Cathedrals
We are centered,
in an ancient ecosystem,
of towering columns and spires
that seem to open heaven’s gate.
They are wearing a course red bark,
that can be one to two feet thick,
protecting their heartwood from fire,
Lucifer’s or anyone else’s.
They are fulfilling their promise,
with a quiet reverence, like apostles.
Their dark green and white ceilings
filter light, like stained glass windows.
Their parish is a connected community,
families surrounding proud parents;
some that have passed away.
Each is a resurrection from ashes and soot.
*
Michael J. LaFrancis is a trusted advisor, advocate, author and connector supporting individuals, groups and organizations aligning purpose and capabilities in service of their highest ideals. Writing poetry is a contemplative practice providing him with insight and inspiration for living a creative life. His poems are appearing in The City Key, Mocking Owl and Amethyst Review in the coming months.
LaFrancis’ hobbies include landscape gardening, nature walks, collecting fine art and writing. He and his partner Sharon are co-authors of their autobiography: Our Wonderful Life. They have two sons and have recently been promoted to being grandparents.
@michaeljlafrancis on Instagram
