Rest

by Katie Christ

A small fan whirrs next to grandmother’s bed.

With clean blue sheets tucked around her,

Her breathing is deep and even.

Small beads of sweat dot her brow

And the short hairs at her temple

Curl in the humid air.

The white downy comforter hangs out on the line

Sun warm but just the slightest bit damp.

The grass has browned in the summer heat

And we’ve all the windows propped open

In hopes of a cooling breeze.