A Holiday Visit from Hospice, with Apologies to Clement C. Moore

‘Twas the night before Christmas and all through the home
The only creatures stirring made sure Mother was not alone.

My mother was nestled all snug in her bed
While visions of fond family memories danced in her head.

With a wink of her eye and a twist of her head
The hospice nurse soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread.

The IV bags were hung by the beside with care
Showing that dedicated hospice workers always were there.

Papa in his Snuggie and I in my cap
Were finally able to settle our brains for a much needed winter’s nap.

Then out in the foyer there arose such a clatter
We sprang from our bed to see what was the matter.

And what to my wondering eyes should appear
But the Angel of Mercy with seven nurse aides so dear.

They spoke comforting words and went straight to their work
Relieving, consoling, giving many a soothing perk.

And laying a palm on Mother’s forehead below
And giving a nod, the Angel said as she rose

“The joys of all seasons to your family I send
We are here for all of you, not just your mother, to tend.

In gladness and grief, here’s our quantum of solace
Until Mother moves on to her eternal palace.

Peace of mind will be yours, to your hospice team give a whistle
And we’ll care for you softly, like the down of a thistle.”

I heard them exclaim, ‘ere they whisked down the hall
“Now, dash away, dash away, caregivers all.”

From the top of the Spring, to the end of the Fall
We must turn, turn, turn through each season, embracing them all.