We Miss You

Today, I have given my little boy the day off school and he and I are spending the day alone, visiting his Mother's memorial tree and quietly remembering, at his request. 


Today is not for sorries,
For painful worries,
For “what ifs,” “whys,”
And obvious cries of “unfair.”
Today’s for saying out loud
“I miss you, girl.”

Today is not just for sadness,
Though sadness is a
Certain side effect.
It’s for memories, for moments
And for him to say
“I miss you, Mum.”

Because even after
365 sleepless nights
The light at the end of the tunnel
Still seems so distant at times.
He’s relearning to smile,
Relearning to laugh,
Relearning to live 
And learning that living
Doesn’t mean giving up
His memories of you.

But today isn’t about
How tough it’s been
How rough it’s been
For that little boy.

It’s simply for saying
“We miss you.”

A Poem for my Son

Dance as though the song that plays,
Is playing just for you.
Smile like she who stole your heart
Has said she loves you too.

Laugh as if there's laughing gas,
Polluting all the air,
Say something that's so crazy
That your friends just stop and stare.

Make a plan, on every day,
To go learn something new,
For while the world is truly full,
The wise folk are too few.

Help old ladies cross the road,
They'll kiss you on the cheek,
And yes, I know it's sloppy son,
But you just made their week.

Don't ignore your head, but note
The mind is just the start.
A truly happy life, my son,
Is one led by the heart.