I've had a life like the fan of two moth wings
their patterns my joys and sorrows
the one side my youth
the other my old age
each with its facets of subtle tints and shades
rich in its simple manner
soft at one end
fringed at the other  

oh thank you dear moths
that have brushed me during my lifetime  
it is you who enriched it
you who gave it nuances of colour
you who remain dear in my heart forever
as long as I have consciousness

and when I die
it is you I shall think of
and take to my grave with
not sadness
but full of happiness

Margaret Ann Waddicor 10th May 2016