Tai Chi

he said,

convinced of the wisdom by a pretty girl in uniform.

 

I can do it in my chair

he said,

oblivious to all the times I'd made the same suggestion.

 

I've never done Tai Chi

he said.

They do it in the village hall, it doesn't cost a lot.

 

I can even go alone

he said.

I won't need chaperoning, there'll be loads of people there.

 

I wonder what it's like

he said.

We tried to do the moves, laughing in a quiet ward.

 

I hope I don't fart

he said,

they'll ban me from the class. We tittered, like we always did.

 

I'll see you when you're home

he said.

Have a good weekend

he said.

I'll see you when I'm back

I said.

Instead I got a phone call and a 6am knock.

 

Peaceful in his sleep

they said,

a smile upon his face.