Third Place Winner - The Beacon
by Barbara Blanks



Dementia's ugly undertow has dragged
him far from sun and moonlight, out beyond
the breakers, miles from shore. His strength has flagged,
the struggle staying sane has changed the bond
between them. He had been her harbor once,
but now she anchors him. Each time he drifts
away, she guides him back. She Googles, hunts
for current treatments. She expects the rifts
within his mind may one day drown them both.
At times he knows what's happening to him.
She sees his dread, and loves him more, is loath
to give him up without a fight. As grim
as any reaper stalks its victim, she,
by God, still tries to tow him back from sea.





Illya's Honey Literary Journal

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