As a past employee, and a long-time volunteer, at the Dr. Hugh Twomey Health Care Centre in Botwood, NL, I have a rare and unique collection of moments and memories stowed away for such a time as this. Our lives often being compared to a wisp of smoke, we are reminded every day how life can change on a dime. The way we are wired is no accident. I am forever grateful for the great filing cabinet of my mind and heart. The Alzheimer's unit at the centre is my very first choice of darlings; of course, having my father, Mr. Fred Stryde (deceased Dec. 24, 2006), and my father-in-law, Mr. Hedley Newhook (a war veteran), as residents just adds to my pleasure. The social of the day was a church service conducted by the Salvation Army Core of Botwood. A medley of joy was felt as we gathered our precious jewels from the three units. The upbeat service was drawing to a close when I noticed my father-in-law had started to dance. A female resident floated to her feet to participate in the cheerful mood. They held hands and slowly moved to the beat of the music. A stolen moment in time, but oh, how everyone enjoyed the performance. Worthy of applause! In the stillness of the night I took pen in hand, and the written word flowed without interruption. Read and visualize.

Joy In the Dance

Music

We delight in watching our children dance
Standing on tippy toes
Little arms taking wing
Bodies pivot, twirl
Feet leap
Parents feel elated observing their zany expression.

Existence

The passage of life is lived
When did this fog roll in?
Please hold my hand for I am muddled
Open up please
Swallow
Everyone is a stranger take me home.

Planned Activity

Adults hold the hand of their parent
Watchful they do not stray or stumble like toddlers
Sit them in a seat
Neatly in rows.

Music

Her soul is stirred
He stands others follow
Their eyes glassy with excitement
The fog clears
They dance feet moving slowly
Old arms take wing
Bodies shuffle
Children watch with open mouths
Blissful
The dance is not forgotten
The fog rolls in   Submitted By: NULL