by Michael Groetsch

Spring

The arrival of life is joyfully announced within the sights, smells, and sounds
That illuminate the wings of hospitals.
The sight of blue and pink ribbons, baby bottles, and smiling faces.
The smell of talcum powder, baby oil, and spring bouquets.
The sound of soft cooing, happy chatter, and parental laughter.

Summer

The celebration of life is lovingly announced within the sights, smells, and sounds
That illuminate the homes of families.
The sight of books, school bags, graduations, and proud faces.
The smell of sweet perfume, strawberry shampoo, and Sunday dinners.
The sounds of ‘love you’, summer vacations, and old movies.

Fall

The recession of life is quietly announced within the sights, smells, and sounds
That illuminate the stages of aging.
The sight of thinning and graying hair, wrinkles, and walking canes.
The smell of body lotion, iron supplements, and medicine cabinets.
The sound of creaking bones, quiet nights, and visiting grandchildren.

Winter

The departure of life is sadly announced within the sights, smells, and sounds
That illuminate the wings of hospitals.
The sight of catheters, monitors, despair, and frowning faces.
The smell of bed pans, urine bottles, and medications.
The sounds of heavy breathing, worried whispers, and family grief.