Leaf shadows
If not for the wind and its icy tendrils
Pestering my hair and furrowing my brows
I might not have looked down and seen
Leaf shadows on cement, like long-ago stars
Impressions of what had been, dancing in place
They litter my path and mock my steps
“Catch us if you can,” they whisper playfully
Knowing the futility of clutching the intangible,
A mere silhouette of that which once dazzled
Aha, I know why you’re here, I think.
To remind me of the fading of a person dear
A bright smile growing dimmer each day
Unfair, that after a brilliant season of sun,
The lake breeze and the scent of peonies,
We’re left with this waning imprint of you.
–R.B.Salonen
(In memory of a family friend whose memorial we’ll be attending this weekend.)
That is beautiful.
Sorry about your friend.
Beautiful, absolutely beautiful. The poem brought tears to my eyes; it reminded me of my late mom, who was my very best friend and passed away a year ago. Thank you for sharing this on your blog.
Have you read Emilie’s post today? I’m so sad for her and keeping her in my prayers. Even though we have never met, much less communicated, I feel a connection. It’s strange how that works, don’t you think?
Tami and Marie,
Thanks for your comments. All this from a few leaves. I am starting to think the leaves are really talking to me! 🙂 And, in fact, nature does speak to us in so many meaningful ways, and I feel privileged to translate some of those messages.
Marie, I’m sorry about your mother. I hope you will share more about her as time goes by. I look forward to hearing more about this beautiful person. She is still and always will be your mother.
I haven’t read Emilie’s post yet today but will right now. I’ve been keeping up with her and, yes, feel a connection. I think many do, since she so willingly shares with us, and being mothers, we can’t help but grieve her suffering with her.
Blessings this weekend!
Roxane