A smile
   with sincere intent
Can open up a small
   place
in the heart of one 
   who seems forgotten

A simple act
  grounded in true compassion
Awakens a joy
  near dead
In the life of one 
  of old age

A head now bowed
   as the fleeting joy
leaves
And the soul returns
   to the place 
it awaits its end.

Amen

DM-2021    

This poem is dedicated to person whose smile tells me she is still alive and is still experiencing the greatest gift God gives, the gift of love.