This is always the most difficult time of year for my family. Seven years ago, my daughter Gavriella became an ancestor. Earlier this year my friend Jeff joined her, leaving behind Gavi’s other honorary grandparent Kate. Last night, as images of Australian infernos kept me awake, I remembered my old activist friends. Jeff’s body gave out long before his heart would have. Trying to find the way out of all-consuming grief in desperate times, this little poem emerged.
Take ahold
Of your sorrows
That hold you
.
Embrace them
Give them over
Overturned
.
Over embers
Replenishing
Turn with care
.
To forge shares
That may plow bold
Tomorrows
.
- Oliver Bassett