I CAN'T REMEMBER

Just a line to say I'm living
That I'm not among the dead,
Though I'm getting more forgetful
And mixed up in the head.

I got used to my arthritis.
To my dentures I'm resigned.
I can manage my bifocals,
But God, I miss my mind.

For sometimes I can't remember
When I stand at the foot of the stairs,
If I must go up for something,
Or have I just come down from there?

And before the 'fridge so often,
My poor mind is filled with doubt;
Have I just put some food away, or
Have I come to take some out?

And there is time when it is dark
With nightcap on my head . . .
I don't know if I'm retiring, or
Just getting out of bed.

So, if it's my turn to write you,
There's no need for getting sore.
I may think that I have written
And don't want to be a bore.

Just, remember that I love you
And wish that you were near,
But now it's nearly mail time so,
I must say goodbye, My dear.

Here I stand beside the mailbox,
With a face so very red . . .
Instead of mailing you my letter,
I've opened it instead!