In memoriam Barbara Joy (21Dec1948-12Nov2011)

For Barbara

I never saw you dance

but when the shocking news came you were dying

I saw what looked like your gown's swirly hem

among the clouds and rainbows

and felt you out there smiling

I don't know if you swam

but as friends and family meet in remembrance

I on a distant shore think of you all

an otter comes and plays in the still sea and

on the rocks as though to tell me all is well

while I stand blinded by tears of grief

my heart upwells with gratitude

to have known you and been allowed to bask

in all your love and laughter

your vast and easy kindness

unseeing I send out my thanks

for the laughter and the love you had

so generously shared with those around you

thank you, dear friend, for having lived

it is so hard to let you go so soon

but we will keep you in our hearts

and see your step

and hear your voice

and feel your touch

in distant waves, in distant clouds, in distant rainbows

PS: A day after writing these lines I learn
that my Goddaughter gave birth to a
little girl – hours after your family and
friends gathered to remember you and your life.
One cycle ends, another begins...

© MPJ, Oban Bay, Scotland, Sat. 19Nov2011