Do you think there is magic in the act of writing?

Question

Magic

By C.S. Scotkin

Her faded blue eyes are focused.

not on TV but where?.

Terse one word answers

are driving me to despair.

I seem unable to reach her,

She seems not to care.

Her universe is shrunken down

to a stark, white washed square.

Hospital bed and dresser.

The TV, reclining chair.

Small table beside her for food

waiting for God, she stares.

I rise, I turn the TV off.

Perform my examination.

Really, she’s doing very well

Despite self vegetation.

I ask if we can talk a while

I tell her, it’s regulation.

I ask, what was your favorite day?

She’s startled by such a query

She bows her head, as if in prayer,

starts to open up to me.

She stretches out her bony hands

In case, she thinks, I try to flee.

A short hour passes, I must go.

This change in her is quite a sight.

She’s not so apathetic now,

Those clouded eyes are turning bright.

Before I walk out of the door,

I ask her, do you ever write?

With widened eyes she looks at me.

“You need to tell these stories, true.

You’ve millions of years to be dead

Don’t let your mem’ries die with you.”

“I have no paper, I have no pen,

Of how to write, I have no clue.”

Next day I bring a notebook, pen,

A flower for her bare table,

“So, pretend I’m listening here,

I know you are more than able.

Your children will love to read you,

More than any tale or fable”.

The last time that I spoke to her,

voice was strong, her spirit lighter,

“I started writing poems, you know.”

This woman is such a fighter!

Exorcising her depression,

This ninety year old new writer!

Answer 1

Yes indeed I do!

Your good intentions and caring heart have given her new purpose.

I nominate Cynthia for the Nurse of the year award!

Answer 2

Writing can be quite an emotional exorcism, I am glad you took the time to open up to this person, and let her know the power of words. A great poem

Answer 3

What an inspiration she is!

Answer 4

Yes, I regularly hold writing workshops and never cease to be amazed at the transforming effect they have on participants.  One high school student found a meaning in his life and decided to major in journalism; he is now excelling in his chosen course of study.  I recommend journal writing for everyone, whether you are a poet or not (the jury is still out in my case!), because the recognitive process that precedes the act of writing constitutes the central act of our lives -- it is where meaning is made, and selves forged.  Yes, there is magic in the act of writing, and for your efforts in transforming dross to gold for this nonagenarian, and yes for your narrative of it, you are to be thanked by us all.  

Answer 5

How adorably sweet and caring you took the time for another soul, and to be able to give her something of benefit to hold! To rise her spirit to a place that once upon a time might have been   and give her that gleam in her eye for all to share!  Cheers!

Answer 6

I used to be a volunteer hospice worker and the rebirth you so tenderly spoke of here is always just on the other side of the door, waiting for someone to open. As you discovered, it takes but just a soft knock, a willingness to listen. So glad I am for her you were there, but gladder still she found her voice before her final rest.

ma

Answer 7

Yes C.S. their is magic. But that magic comes from the heart and someone who gives u inspiration. That was a good poem and touched me within. I started reading and couldnt quit.

Answer 8

Contrary to what our Captain believes, I put YOU second in line for best poet on the Internet.

As for the first in line...

Answer 9

I think there is magic in good writers of poems, stories, etc.

I also believe that special magic of writing is a gift from God.

It's just a natural-given-talent for some.   A gift.

Answer 10

2 nice jobs Ms Scotkin!

the poem and you caring.

..you have the magic touch

in your work for sure!

Answer 11

Might be, but the magic is in the heart of the caregiver who took the step to "awake" the writer.  Well said and compliments to you for both.

Answer 12

It seems the pen was not the only instrument that aided in a few more heartbeats.

Blessed is the caregiver, an instrument from God.  

Answer 13

There is healing magik in the pen, but the greater enchantment is in the heart of one who shares the secret. You, C, kissed by the goddess, sent to the world to spread light. I can see it through your poems, through your life across the screenwaves. Thank you for blessing me, and the world, and for touching lives the way you do.

From the Bottom of my Heart,

Eva