I have known you since you were a toddler, ten years younger than my best friend and me. You were spoiled and annoying; we would never be friends, but we got along fine on the occasions we shared once you grew up. We lost your sister years ago, and though we hadn't stayed as close as we'd been as girls, I was struck by how my heart ached when she passed. I didn't expect so many tears. She was too young and it came too fast. It was sad news again when your much younger sister, ravaged by cancer, passed only months ago. I knew her less than I knew you, but grieved for your family and a life taken too soon. Two days ago they found you alone in your apartment, your spirit gone off to reunite with your sisters. Out of the blue, unforeseen, with no obvious reasons for your passing. You, too, were too young. My heart aches for those you left behind. I find I cannot stop thinking about three sisters all gone too soon. I cannot stop thinking about your brother left to grieve alone. I cannot stop thinking how lucky I am to be alive, and still have a sister to share the world with. We are here on the whims of Fate, no matter that we think we can control our existence. Mortality is the common bond we cannot escape. Let us treasure every moment for the joy it holds and look for the light when darkness threatens to overwhelm us. Let us honor those we've loved and lost by living life as the precious gift it is.
(for Karen, Patty, & Kellie, RIP)
Elise Skidmore ©2020
Oh Elise this is absolutely beautiful,hugs
Thank you. It’s strange sometimes how someone you weren’t really close to can pass and it still have a strong effect on you. Patty and I were never close, certainly not what you would call friends, but her death has struck me more deeply than I would have expected. I tried to show that in this poem.