Remembrance In Joy

                                               for Irene Dorothy Harris

 

You left me here on earth on the order of a Higher Authority,

Half a decade ago and sadness replaced my mirth.

Yet I continue to see you in the glowing color of the rainbow,

Clearly see you, reflected in a mirror

Of my thoughts, in my actions, and at times, in my dreams.

Your presence continues to pervade even in your absence.

I feel your warmth, your compassion, your grace,

And see your beauty, your radiant smile, at times

Admixed with tears of pain, as the light of the sun

Obliterates them.  I hear your song, your melodies of cheer,

To melt selfishness; they bring on colors ever so clear.

 

You left me with precious memories of yesteryears,

And surround my present moments with remembrance of joy,

Our past becomes a review of love, compassion, and sharing

Of family, of friends, of community and always, of you.

You left me with moments of grace, with a clear reminder

Of the briefness of the holiday in our journey and space.

The program of life underscores that there is only the moment,

One at a time they tick relentlessly, measured by our metronome,

In rhythmic beats of our hearts and the beauty of our souls.

The glowing flicker of your life is reflected in the mirror

Of my memory, in celebration of your life.

I express my love and gratitude

That you spent your life with me.

A remembrance of joy to see.

My words, my thoughts most personal ever-so

Made public to let the world also know.

 

 

Published in Caliche Echoes 2003;

Golden Hind Publishing Co.