Often
I defer pleasure,
learning,
enduring,
working so hard I bring you into my dreams.

I see happiness.
I receive red tomatoes from fertile gardens.
I hold grey hands with the dying as my throat aches.
I read letters of profound gratitude,
and listen to silently screaming blame.

You expect health and immortality,
as do I.
Our failure is certain.
Tragedy dwarfs scripture
and quaint incantations.

Enjoy life
Defiantly.
Hear ancestors whispering
don’t be afraid.

Revere your story,
how you weave character,
holding onto those you love
until you can’t

and then forgive
Life itself.