I think that I've learned how to live, she said.
It is a losing game, but that's all right.
Denial helps to cope, except at night.
So I just sleep with the lights on instead.

I think that I've learned how to love, she said.
The key is loving safe and faithful things.
A daffodil, a bird with broken wings.
I'm very happy in my empty bed.

I think that I've learned how to die, she said.
First, start with God and science on your side.
But mother, I said, you've already died.
I pointed to the marker by her head.
Her tears were terrible to see. I fled.
Now I no longer listen to the dead.