Laughing Beauty

Once upon a time in a faraway nursing home
was a princess with cerebral palsy in a bed.
She could not talk; she was never alone
but could feel, hear, see, and laugh instead.

She was slender, young and very pretty.
All the aides and nurses cared for her.
Her laughter helped those with self-pity.
Her smile was infectious and no bother.

She looked like Goldilocks and innocent.
Truly a treasure she was to know and see.
We all felt she is different and heaven sent.
We were used to just treating the elderly.

Her geri-chair was this horizontal throne.
She brought good will and peace to all.
She communicated with a guttural moan.
She was the fairest of all the whole hall.

She lights the faces of all who saw her.
So fragile and so very small but brave.
Like gold she is such a sweet treasure.
She is such a comfort beyond the grave.