Whispers of Wonderland

Dear Warrior

My love,

We held hands as we waited, gripping each other tightly, both trying to ignore the heat emanating from your body. We crossed our fingers, swallowing the rising feeling of dread. Before the man spoke, we both knew what he was going to say. He shook his head, his eyes filled with pity, and the ever-rising dread finally overtook me. I shut my eyes, hoping to wake up from this nightmare; away from this morbid disease. Your warm hands left mine, your smile was sad, and your eyes struggled to hold back tears. With a promise to meet again, you left. You lied.

Hearing your voice each day was the highlight of my day. You complained about the fussy doctors, and I wished I was one of them. You would be called away, and I would hold the phone in my hands, long after the heat leaves it. Flowers bloomed, and they fell. Leaves shone with a viridescent green and then fell - a brittle, pale yellow, and you still weren't home. Your voice grew weaker, and those at the hospital had started looking at me with sorrow. I would walk to all your favourite places, and tell you their stories. You would chide me, for being irresponsible, but I could see your fond smile through the phone.

One day, without warning, your breath turned to air, and I wasn't there. You were alone, and you left alone. I walked to all your favourite places, they still bustled with people, smiles were aplenty, and there were cheers of laughter. They didn't know you were gone. They didn't know that yet another soldier perished in this battle.

Every day, more people come to where you are. I think you would get along with them splendidly. Men, women, children, rich, poor, they come without prejudice. But, one day, we will end this. That day, I can finally look you in the eye and say: "Thank you, for treating them with a smile. Thank you, for being a doctor. Thank you, for being a warrior,"

To all those who lost their lives in this battle, and to all those who fought courageously for us; 

Thank You