A Caregiver's Prayer

Are wishes strong desires with a minimum chance of fruition?
Are hopes strong desires with an expectation of an outcome?

I wish I could run a marathon
But hope I can always walk without assistance.

I wish I could travel the world
But hope I can continue to drive my car.

I wish I could eat pepperoni pizza
But hope I can always feed myself.

I wish I could read every literary masterpiece
But hope I will always recognize my grandchildren.

I wish I could afford spas, massages and manicures
But hope I can always bathe, toilet and dress myself.

I wish my hands were silky, steady, and sunspot free
But hope someone will hold my hand when I need a hand.

I wish I could remain ageless
But hope I age with dignity.

I wish I could give my mom the gift of independence
But hope she’ll learn to accept her dependence.

I wish I could provide her with tools to fix her problems
But hope she’ll learn to navigate with her wheelchair.

I wish I could hold her hand as she did mine
Let go and watch her soar.

But I’ve clipped her wings
Placed her in a nursing home.

I wish I could reverse events
But hope she’ll hold my hand and let my love comfort her.

Are wishes strong desires with a minimum chance of fruition?
Are hopes strong desires with an expectation of an outcome?

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