For a long time I have been preparing myself for the exercise which consists, for the poet, in simulating death.
—Jean Cocteau
And somebody would come and knock on this air long after I have gone and there is front of me a life would open.
—W.S. Merwin
Death is just infinity closing in.
—Jorge Luis Borges
A Letter From Home
A Tribute Poem is a poem written for an individual or loved who usually has transitioned from this earth. I have written three. One each for Arnie Nybak, Kathleen Sherrill and my mother, who is still with us on this planet. I wanted her to know my love and caring before she died. To the departed words have no meaning.
After publishing the poem 'This Hollow Emptiness In My Soul', I received a number of requests as a result of one of the lines in the poem, ("I want the world to read the words you wrote to me in the time of my deepest grief and despair. How you helped me when I had no one else to turn to.") asking if I would share the words my mother wrote.
True wisdom comes to us in many varied forms and from many sources. My mother is and continues to be a deep well of wisdom for my life. Her letter was handwritten but is typed out below. I received this letter following the tragic death of a loved one, Kathleen Sherrill, on June 29th, 2003. I still keep the original in my Rainy Day Box.
July 17, 2003
Dear Son,
I cannot begin to feel your pain but I do know the deep hurt that comes to you after the death of a loved one. As much as it hurts, there comes a time when you must check yourself. You are here and as long as you are you will always remember Kathleen. Always the good and wonderful times the two of you had together.
I know you are sad and so should be but every day ask Jehovah (God) to make you strong. He has already made you wise and smart. Now you must ask Jehovah to help your heart feel less pain. Pray every day for strength and He will give you what you need. Kathleen had a wonderful impact on your life. There is a time for mourning and a time for healing and you need both.
You must go on and take care of yourself. Rebuild your faith and your life. I will be praying for you and still loving you. Take heart and care for Shelton.
Love you,
Mom
Photo Credit: Graveyard