A Poem for Us All

Currently, I am re-printing our International Wave of Light programs because an idea came to me, last minute - as most of my good ones do.

As we light our candles tomorrow night my father will strum his guitar. At first, the background music seemed enough, a light touch to add to the memorial at hand. But then, I wanted, no - needed a poem. Something equally light and airy, not too deep, the perfect words to compliment random chords and small, moving bits of light.

After making a call, it came to me. My mind rewinding to the last day of my Share training.

Our closing ceremony was brief, filled with music, tears, complicated I-just-met-you-but-can't-stand-to-go goodbyes, and - a poem. This poem. It is perfect.

I type it here for each of you. If you are lighting candles tomorrow night, perhaps you might read it along with us. The idea of our collective actions happening simultaenously across the globe lights the flame within me.

For each and every one of you missing your sweet angel babies...

We Remember Them

In the rising of the sun and its going down –
We remember them
In the blowing of the wind and the chill of winter –
We remember them
In the grayness of an early morning rain and in the promise of the rainbow that follows,
We remember them

In the opening of bud and in the rebirth of spring,
We remember them
In the blueness of the sky and in the warmth of summer,
We remember them
In the rustling of leaves and in the beauty of autumn,
We remember them

In the beginning of the year and when it ends,
We remember them
When we are weary and in need of strength,
We remember them
When we are lost and sick at heart,
We remember them
When we have joys we yearn to share,
We remember them

So long as we live they too shall live, for they are a part of us as,
We remember them

I'm Leaving On A Jet Plane...

I really am this time! Heading out tomorrow for some plane hopping with an eventual arrival in ...St. Louis, Missouri! I will be gone five days and (I can hardly believe it myself) I WILL ONLY HAVE TO WEAR ONE HAT FOR ALL FIVE DAYS!

The pale purple hat I'm packing is Share Southern Vermont Representative.

I swung into the resturant last night to pick up my tips check and my boss said, "Have a great trip! It is business or pleasure?"

The question threw me. After a beat I said, "both". It is I think.

I mean, I will learn many useful and important tools about running a Share group, leading the corporation and meeting active griever's needs. (business)

But, I will also meet a host of new people in the grief world. Some, will have lost children of their own and others will be there to gain a sensativity for grief in the workplace (most nurses or doctors). In both "nice to meet you" conversations Emma will come up. And, it will be expected that she does. And, the best part of all, the mention of her name will be accepted and understood. (pleasure)

And yes, it truly will be a pleasure even if I shed some tears, for speaking of her, telling her story, sharing her life has become enjoyable. The knife-like edge has worn away, so when I speak her name it sounds likes music. A smile accompanies the syllables. I feel her with me. Our logo says it all - we hold our hearts in our hands.

I have no expectations for this trip. I imagine there will be wireless, and of course - I'll check in, but I also know that I have to let this journey evolve and just...be what is it meant to be. I will meditate everyday - of that I am sure, for through meditation I will be better able to hear my inner voice calling me, leading me.

Back on Monday...now - must go do laundry!