Ode to night shift

They come to work as the sun sets and
Go home as the sun rises.
During the winter months they hardly see the light of day.

They work in the dark or very dim lit room,
They walk softly and whisper their care,
Quietly telling you what they are doing and yet
Allowing rest and recovery to occur.

They wipe fevered brows, empty drains, watch telemetry monitors,
Listen to restful breathing or restless stirs.
They bring cots for family members
And offer reassurances.

They bring midnight snacks and pain pills.
They watch, wait and comfort through those tragic moments.
They sit at the bedsides of the dying and pray.

These are the nurses of the night shift.
The ones that keep vigil while others sleep
And dream...

They work in the dark and provide such light.