old man

If I had my health
this whole collection
of sights and songs
peoples and places
my CDs and tapes and records
my videos and TVs and books
if I had my health
I would trade them in
I would touch and I would smell
I would go there once more
and dance again with the Gypsies

Indeed, my son
I would not value anymore
these possessions
that have been plundered and sold
nor seek faith in a love
I can neither touch nor behold

for Salim Irmisch Abratov