The Respirator

I watch you disappear
silent and peaceful at last

As you lie there
artificially breathing

Someone collapses nearby
in fear at what they have done

As you lie there
artificially breathing

I watch the numbers on the machine decrease during
the longest hour of my life

As you lie there
artificially breathing

Then peace
and nothing
absolutely nothing

The futility of life
makes you wonder...

ae
May 2002