Her mouth opens but all that comes out

Is “I’m great, how are you?”

Not such a bright thing to say to one suffering so much

But what can she say

What are the right words

"Cancer, that must suck"

"You'll be better in no time!"

Pathetic.

So many questions but not any answers

Only they know the pain

Of hair loss, of chemo, of the tumors encroaching on their lungs, their heart

Of gasping as if atop Everest, with all the exhaustion and none of the exhilaration

No breathtaking view, just breaths that are due

A debt to pay for no reason at all

Trying, trying so hard to catch cancer in the act, as if another’s life rightfully his to own

But all we’re left with is empty fists

Punching the wall in frustration

What is life if not ours to control?

How do we console the inconsolable

And when it’s too late...

How do we tell them that they are not alone?