A Letter To Nan

The heavens themselves wept on that silver morning
Before wiping away their tears and shining for you.
We lifted you up and stepped off, arms linked as if
We were propping up one another’s courage.
Laying you down was more like taking up a burden
Than putting one away, an indescribable weight.

Hymns, readings, prayers, passed by, fleeting memories,
Glancing attempts at assuaging our corporate grief.
But you were most alive to us in the music, most dynamic,
And as that second Miller played, I saw you.
I saw you and Grandad dancing, passing the Cross and
The lectern, out onto the porch and into green fields.

Your Charlie was a bit awkward, not quite able to keep up
But doggedly sticking by you, embarrassed but loving.
You danced beyond view and we left, lessened but more whole,
Proceeding to live in the manner you two would have us live.
You seemed to be watching that reception, knowing your gains:
Heaven after life, and your love spreading for generations.