A Million Times

You may hear the same questions, the same comments,

the same memories in endless repetition.

The mind of the one in your care can no longer keep track

of how many times an idea is repeated.

Your healthy mind will take note of every cycle.

You might become impatient or frantic or angry

at this unceasing retelling and questioning.

Relax.

You will only frustrate yourself if you say:

“We’ve already talked about this.”

or “That’s not right.”

or “Don’t you remember?”

No. The one in your care does not remember.

Forgive this state of being.

Though asked a million times,

respond a million times

as though each time is the first time.

This is when the scripture works,

“Love is patient, love is kind.”