Just Last Week

I wrote this in July 2020. Since that time, my husband has had brain surgery and has gone through a traumatic experience. At some point, I will write more about that, but for now, here is the July 2020 writing:

​7/15/2020
 
Just last week.
Just last week, he signed up for a virtual 1,000 mile bike race.
Just last week, he was reciting Shakespeare sonnets by memory.
Just last week, he was diligent in his training and nutrition.
Just last week, he did not forget anything.  
Just last week, he was solid.
Just last week, I was his wife.  
Just last week, we were saying how perfect our lives are.
Just last week, we were talking about the trips we wanted to take.
Just this week.
Just  this week, he leaves doors open.
Just this week, he sleeps a lot.
Just this week, he does not remember to eat.
Just this week, he is not active.
Just this week, he forgets the dog.
Just this week, he has no routine.
Just this week, he is not predictable.
Just this week, he is unsteady.
Just this week, he is a different man.
Just this week, I am afraid to leave him alone.
Just this week, I am afraid he will never be the same.
Just this week, I love him more than he will ever know.
Just this week, I am his wife and his advocate.
Just this week, we have memories of what was.
Just one week.