You shouldn't smile like that

You shouldn't smile like that, Eric
Just stay in your wheelchair by the window
enjoy a newspaper or a book as you normally do.
Be gentle and generous, and speak your mind, but no,
you shouldn't smile like that.

You shouldn't smile like that, Eric
Just come to the gift shop for your moisturizing creme
or for a little something for your loving partner.
Be conversant though you have a hoarse voice, but no,
you shouldn't smile like that.

You shouldn't smile like that, Eric
Just be our wise friend, neighbor and great protector
who has conquered his own pain and ailment.
Be brave as you survive another bout of pneumonia, but no,
you shouldn't smile like that.

You shouldn't smile like that, Eric
for you charm everyone's hearts
and give them a prick like a thorny thistle,
for they know too well soon you'll be gone,
leaving them broken hearted and in so much pain.

On second thought, thank you for smiling, Eric.
For at 78, you'd warmed countless hearts
and showed the ailing so much gallantry.
Farewell to you on January 30
and though our pain is sharp and our sorrow deep,
we paint a smile on our face...
in sweet remembrance.
Jamison/02/05/2011