I saw an old woman, on her bed she laid,
Her eyes were dark and distant,
Void of joy and dreams delayed
I thought her not very pretty.

She viewed me as stranger, intruder to her day.
Television blaring--disturbing all peace.
Her friends had left and gone away
Drew Carey, and her favorite--Kathie Lee.

She inquired if I was new,
My face vaguely familiar.
I said I was the daytime crew--
Been here many times before.

It was noontime, so she asked
Not meaning to interrupt,
If I was on my usual task
And had the time to bring some lunch.

She wanted to see the menu
But, I told her there was none.
A room with a better view
If not, then she would just have to leave.

Topped with whipped cream
I served her daily red Jello
And, then...she let out a scream.
She swore she hadn't had it in ages.

How cheered she was to see me now
My offenses long gone
Forgotten somehow...
She ate and ate with great delight.

I saw an old woman, on her bed she laid,
Her eyes misting with memories
From long ago days--
I thought, how perfectly beautiful she was.

She said, "Thank you for the treat."
Is it someone's birthday today?"
As if she remembered, she showed me a seat
Wanting me to join in the fun.

"Another helping then?"
She raised her bowl in toast,
And...smiled at me once again.
"I'm sure you've been here before..."