AN EMPTY CHAIR
by Penny Davis
Hospice Executive ,Memoirist and Published Author
It is cold and snowy outside
Tiny colorful lights twinkle through window panes
Families gather to celebrate the holidays
But, a chair is empty
Inside, the home is filled with an amazing aroma
Turkeys and hams are baking
Pies, cakes and frosted cookies line the buffet
But, a chair is empty
The tree is surrounded by gifts
Beautifully wrapped in red and green paper adorned with ribbon
Children are squealing with happiness
But, a chair is empty
Emotions run high and low
Families celebrate and make new memories
Cameras snap new family pictures
But, a chair is empty
December, the end of a memorable year
December, still a holiday celebration
December, remembering those who are no longer with us
A chair is empty but, all hearts come home for Christmas
About The Author
Penny Davis recently retired after 54 years in health care with many as a Vice President and Executive Director of Hospice. She is dedicated to Hospice, and serves on the Board of IHPCO. She has written and published a book honoring Hospice patients, families and Interdisciplinary Teams. Read about “PJ’s, Pearls, and Fishing Poles” at
https://blog.aftertalk.com/?s=holiday+grieving
Every Wednesday we will be publishing Pandemic Weekly for, we hope, not too long. We invite you to submit your thoughts, essays, poems or songs. Please send to info@aftertalk.com.