Dying Wishes

His room had just the sound of steady breathing.
The patient seemed to be in a deep, induced sleep
He made no move when steps announced the family's entry.

The body looked as if he'd been a prisoner.
His cracked lips showed that he could not swallow.
No smells showed that he had not been cared for.

Family members sat in chairs around their older brother.
They took their time to say a prayer or two.
The man who was their brother was dying.

One member played a hymn and a psalm for his comfort.
If he heard the music and words, he made no move.
The family knew that his life going, as his wishes were being obeyed.

He lasted longer that most could imagine.
He was laid to rest beside his loving wife.
He knew that the pain would not continue in the soon to be afterlife.