An Ordinary Life

April 17th

The morning when my sister is around is
The best.
I can be spoiled; she takes a great care of me.
And I can enjoy meals.

Slept in late, and I woke up to find it was past 9 o'clock.
I had her to change my body position to
Lie on the right side with legs placed like running.
It has been a long time since I lay in this position.

She made me fresh ginger tea
Sweetened with honey.
I hope it will relieve a cough.
I have been having phlegm lately and having a coughing fit.

I hope it is just seasonal allergy, not the sign of progress of the disease.
No, it must be allergy.
I told myself so.

I've been having a cough and feeling sluggish.
I'm short of breath.
I gonna die I complained to my sister.
I'm sorry to make you worry.

Today's weather is
Neither clear nor rain.
It is an overcast day.
It is an ordinary weather.
Ordinary?

And then I thought about you, my love.
I wish I could have an ordinary life.

Poem by Maria Franki

Edited and translated by J. Ujiie

©2011