Deathbed

 And here, on my deathbed,

when death finally finds me,

I hope it does not rush me.

I hope it leans close and whispers,

“Come now. The struggle is over.”

I hope it takes my hand gently,

like an old friend

who understands the depth of my fatigue.

I hope it says,

“You have carried enough.

Let me bear the weight now.”

I hope it asks nothing of me—

no questions,

no explanations.

Only quiet.

Only rest.

A place where nothing hurts anymore,

and I am no longer required

to be strong for anyone again.

- Rahul