I store you inside me
  under a blanket of pearls

They lie strung together
  as my history unfurls

Each one to unstring
  when I need it the most

Your wisdom translucent
  your memory my host

You loved me before
  I ever knew who I was

My freedom you shepherd
  reaching down from above

Though years have grown distant
  they forever remind

Of your goodness and blessings
—Oh Catherine of mine

(Villanova Pennsylvania: July, 2018)