The Things They Carry (Poem)

This poem was written several months ago, in response to posts on Our Cancer, an online support group in which I have been active for some time. A number of my more recent poems have found their genesis on that site but I like to think the words are about a whole lot more than cancer.

The Things They Carry

I

Wipes, diapers, burp bibs,
   a portable changing pad
Clothing change (maybe two)
Stroller, sun lotion, blanket, keys
Off! depending on time of year
Graham crackers and juicy cup
Tin of cheerios and apple juice
Tape, crayons, glue sticks
Magic markers, hand sanitizer
Rubber stamps and ink pad
Sketch pad and coloring books
Colored pencils and sharpener
Alphabet stickers, tiny-hands scissors
Stencils, picture books, music tapes
Throw-away camera for not-to-be-missed moments
Kit to render first-aid


II

Street-smarts
The clothes on his back
Swiss Army knife
Recycler's acumen
Grocery cart (one wheel that won't stay on)
Cardbox box, heavy plastic tarp
Newspapers, yellowed foreclosure notice
Mensa member card, expired Rx bottle
Plastic shopping bags (no ties)
Styrofoam cups (one for coins)
Refillable plastic water bottles
Salvaged energy bars
1 umbrella, its ribs broken
Green Salvation Army-issued blanket
2 quarters a dime and a nickel
The Good Book
Cardboard "Will Work for Food" sign
Magic markers, hand sanitizer
Someone's morning pastry, last night's handouts
The story of his life


III

List of questions and spaces for answers
State-issued parking pass/disabled tag
1 small plastic bin and extra liners (just in case)
Cooler, ice packs, bottled water, juice packs
Saltines, plastic spoons, fork and knife
Magazines and New York Times crossword puzzles
Hand-sanitizer, hand towels, soft hankies, tissues
More tissues
Toothpaste and brush, gum and mints
Disinfecting wipes (for chair, tv, remote, etc.)
Plastic gloves and freshening wipes
Back pillow
Menus for local restaurants (when there's time)
Cell phone, charger, phone numbers
Coins for times cell phone won't work
Chemo and radiation schedules
Appointment records, Rx records, OTC drug
   records, lists of supplements/vitamins
Blood-work results and comparisons
Button-down shirt, comfortable shoes, easy-waist pants
Replacements for the above (just in case)
Books on tape, books not on tape
iPod and earplugs
Study Bible (optional), highlighter, journal
Pen to collect thoughts and recall dreams
Something to hold all of the above
Hope


IV

Silence on lips, words in stolen glances
The feeling when two hands touch
Power of attorney, medical directive
The mind's eye
A god-box of after-thoughts
List of questions and spaces for answers

Copyright 2009 Maureen E. Doallas. All Rights Reserved.