A WALKING PANACEA (a poem by June)

There was a time many years ago
when things were bright, all systems go.
We laughed ‘till we cried, no room for a sigh
‘cept over some beauteous lullaby.

The mountains sang, church bells rang
to welcome each glorious day.
‘Til I suddenly found that I’d lost my ground.
My framework was in disarray.

‘You’ve dementia’ they said, ‘is that to do with my head ?’
‘Why are these things happening to me ?’
This endless veil of uncertainty
cloaks me in misery.

Medication arrived and soon I worried
just how much of a change there would be ?
But my dog was still there and surely he’ll need to share
daily walks in the country with me ?

I reach out and touch, Jack responds so much
still there despite my recalcitrant mood.
Can this nightmare end now I’ve realised my friend
is ready our jaunts to renew ?

The bull rushes dance and I am entranced
by the trees and canal-side scene.
Birds swooping in flight and other beautiful sights
keep my mood from being so mean.

I’m no longer stressed, my head not so messed
up with confusion and ready to fight.
This countryside ramble is the perfect preamble
for calmness which feels perfectly right.

When buds break forth each new Spring’s dawn
and birds awake to charm each morn
I celebrate with unreserved cheer
dementia or not, I’m still here.

For years and years I intend to be
healthily free, no risk assessment for me.
Each fresh air walk centres my life
into calmness and joy, with the help of my wife.