the short visit

the industry
of the aged building
homes that aren't homes.
the sticks
and canes, walkers
by the door.
the oxygen if
needed.
the small brown
tubes
of pills, soldiers
on the sill.
the house
too warm for guests
too cold
for those
in shawls, in robes,
in tattered
clothes, slippers
unfit for use.
the television
is a fire full of voices
without meaning.
the gay wreathe
and lights of the tree
are small
wonders.
the few faces who
visit are almost
strangers. spoon fed,
a sip
or two from a long straw.
dinner is served.
how they rock and rock
towards sleep.