Not My Dad

I don’t know who is under those blankets but it isn’t the father I’ve known. Yes, his DNA and basic body structure are the same but the mind is in a whole different place. My father was always a fighter and enjoyed every bit of life yet this person that lies in this bed wants nothing of this sort.  The family was the key that kept his heart beating now it appears this person just wants to be alone. Maybe my father has already opened the gates and this is the shell that has been left behind or G-D willing he will return if just for a moment and tell us those key thoughts.  I miss my father already even though technically he is still here.