The shell gone, you are free to bless us
in so many ways. We smile at memories
of songs sung around the house,
of trips to the beach or family gatherings;
you are there in our love for each other
for you first showed us what love is.
Your care helped make us what we are:
you are there in our work and our play.
If we are honest in our work, it is because
you showed us what it is to be true.
If our play is fierce, but friendly, it is you
who taught that play should end in smiles, not tears.
We are your success. You live on in the world:
ripples in the lake of life spread out
to an unseen, boundless future.
But who can sound the depths of love,
or fathom the mysteries of creation?
Our paltry minds cannot comprehend a God
who holds in being a universe of universes,
yet marks the fall of a sparrow. Nothing is lost;
what has been remains within eternity, and you
are held within the arms of Love. Do you now run
across the Elysian Fields with your beloved twin,
and watch over us with eyes of heavenly love?
We cannot know. But still we feel your warmth
around this house that wears your mantle,
with ornamental cats, a garden bird stand,
grandchildren pictured growing strong and tall,
the kitchen drainer on the left, the writing desk,
your armchair by the window - and so much more,
but most of all in memories so fresh, a love
that blesses us anew with every breath.
