The Retreat, 2006

He heard his future today.
Squealing hearing aids releasing
demons abandoned into those ears
by victims of history's mischief.
Shooshing tanks of oxygen blowing
air into lungs that breathed out
sighs for other loves left behind.
Whirring electric scooters unburdening
legs worn by a double weight of sin.
Playful laughter like wind through the cottonwoods
not knowing whether they are old or young
only that they still stand.