July Thirty-first

It's been a year

Since we talked. Since you were here.

And although my life is forever changed

Through so many things, your life remains:



in a word, a smile, a scent, a sound

for that split second i look around

and tell myself you are in a better place

there is no pain upon your face.



There are no more moments to wish for peace

no more waiting for time to cease



Through the eyes of every being of light

in the innocent laugh of a child's delight

in the soft clatter of summer rain

in the crunch of gravel on dry terrain

in the glistening sun on birds in flight

and the sound of leaves rustling through the night

you speak to me.



In my dreams, these moments make hours

your smile embraces my soul

I am grateful to sense your being

you are content, at peace, and whole



As I slowly awaken, I begin to see

unlike the leaf fallen from its tree

the winds of time will not take you from me



And while your physical form is forever gone

It is through these things, mom, your life lives on.