A final farewell to my beloved Grammy
I wrote this poem for my Grammy prior to her passing, and on her final night in hospice, I was fortunate enough to be able to read this to her before she passed the next morning. Though she was unable to speak at the time, I felt that it afforded her heart some peace in knowing just how lived she was. In the days to follow, I read my poem at her wake, in the presence of the many people who cherished her. The poem is simply titled, ‘Grammy’ I know it may sound ridiculous But when I picture it, I think of this A cruise ship sits waiting on the water A ship that often sought her But she wouldn’t board til she was ready Her outstretched hand is calm and steady Grabbing the slipway by the rail Completely and finally content to sail She walks toward the ship deck With her loads of luggage in check And standing there with smiling faces The loved ones’ passed into gods graces Though they’d long since left our mortal plane Their devotion to her remained unchanged Patiently they’ve waited Their breath, holding and bated For Grammy to join them at God’s side They’ve come to assist with her final ride She approaches them with glee They embrace her happily She transforms into a younger self A beautiful thing, in of itself She turns to face us on the dock Without her yelling we hear her talk She says “I love you all so much, it pains me To see your sadness ever so plainly Dry your eyes and do not fret I’ve lived a life of little regret I’ve fond memories of journeys bold I’ve succeeded in being adorned in gold I rose from ashes of the Great Depression And lived a full life, filled with passion Remember me fondly but please don’t despair For I’ll never be far from all those who care I leave you now but we’ll meet again-you’ll see Though the knowledge of when is not given to me But have no doubts my love won’t sway And I’ll embrace you as though we last parted yesterday. Please take care of yourselves, use the things that I’ve taught you. Wash your dupas, read books, and always be thoughtful, no more do-dads or piercings, you look just fine as you are. Leave blankets, a flashlight and first aid kit in your car. You can take Sweet-N-Low packets, they’re obviously free. Even if you don’t need them, just save them for me. Atop the toaster is a reasonable place to store bacon, If you think it smells odd, then you’d be mistaken. Find your happiness in life no matter the path, Make time now and then to relax in a bath. Don’t argue with loved ones, walk away if you’re mad. Return to discuss it when cooler heads can be had. Don’t hold on to anger, it does no good to be petty. Life’s too short to stay mad, just let go of it already. I shared my wisdom with you, up to my 89th year, So that you could be strong when I’m no longer here. My angel, it’s time, I’ve been called away But I’ll give you, my family, just one more good day. We will laugh and dance, reflect and embrace. When you look upon me, you’ll see joy on my face. The time has come to say our goodbyes, As we part, hold my hand and look into my eyes. A final phrase I’ll direct to you as we touch, Hug me tight as I utter “I love you so much”
