I remember a time
when I remembered
my father is also a son
who took care of a daughter
who was me.
And when I forgot
that I was a daughter
taken care of by a father
My father reminded me
by taking care of his mother.
I remember a time
when my father scooped up his mother
into his arms
as delicately as if she was a house of cards
as strong as if he was a linebacker.
This was his duty as her son.
I forgot there was a time
When the child takes care of the mother
Or maybe I never knew.
I remember a time
when my Grandmother said to me
“I’m afraid you will forget me.”
I said
“That’s ridiculous”
And stood up to go to the bathroom
so she wouldn’t see me cry
about just how much I would NOT
forget her.
I remember a time
when I remembered all I forgot
Bubblegum, Dandelions, Ruby Rings
cookie dough and cookies
Both chocolate and peanut butter chip
And how much everyone loved her.
“Grandma I never saw you angry with anyone.”
“Why would I be?”
I remember a time
when I had to say goodbye.
She said
“Come back soon”
And I wasn’t coming back.
And she wouldn’t be there.
And I knew, and she knew.
And I saw my brother cry for the first time
in nine years.
And suddenly I forgot how to leave a room.
My father said
“This was probably the hardest thing
you’ve ever had to do.”
Yes.
I remember my Grandmother say
“You’re all so beautiful.”
Beautiful women raise beautiful families.
I remember a time
when I remembered
my father’s a son
And I am a daughter.
