THE PEACE OF GRIEF

In the twilight of this morning,
When all of time meets and folds over
and in and on and between itself,
I went back to my mother's dying and told her of my love.

I was the child offering the mothering.
She was fetal, wanting, waiting.
I love you, I said, it will be okay.
She was fetal, wanting, waiting.

My fingers smoothed over her brow.
Love her, Lord, make it okay.
My cheek touched the forever smoothness of her cheek.
Take away her darkness, Lord.
Tell her I loved her.
Tell her I love her still.......


It has been almost ten years since my mother's death. I think I am finally at peace with it and with her. Thanks be to God!