Memoriam

She was gone in the morning
A headache was the only warning
While I called the ambulance
I heard you explaining to the kids

Over time words lose their meaning
They grow, soft and shapeless from repeating
So let me say it clear and slow
My God, I love you so

She hadn’t been sick for a while
When I’d ask about it she just smiled
Death grows gradually familiar
Just like any other fear

It was a perfect last day
Just what we’d all choose if we had our way
And I can’t stop checking your breathing every morning