in loving memory of Tracey McCartney
We balkat the task of writingabout the life of a belovedbecause it seems impossible,the audacity of eulogizing herrendering us wordless at firstbut we try anyway.We listen to Neil Peartfor inspirationto pen stories and poems,write songs and blog posts,issue proclamationsusing words like fierceand justice, steady and strong,talent and uproariousness,passion and compassionand love.We search inside ourselvesfor the same qualities,wondering about the unnamed thingthat draws one personto anotherwhether across timeand miles and constant changeor tucked in togetherbelly to backevery night for eighteen years.We are drawn to her,our brightest light.We warm ourselves nearby.We curl up beside her,ever-closer as her flames begin to dim,fervently scribbling down wordsdescribing how much she means to us.
I wrote this poem for a Celebration of Life this past weekend in Nashville and it was read by Tracey’s spouse Nan. Deep sigh. Much love.
Sharing with the Toads on the Tuesday Platform in the Imaginary Garden.
I'm losing them right and left as well. It's never easy. But it sure makes you reflect upon your own life.
ReplyDeleteThis really hit home. I just cleaned my stove and thought of my mother who passed away last year the whole time. Love the last stanza and know the flame dims and the back to belly doesn't last forever, although we live like it does.
ReplyDeleteWhat a solemn and heartwarming piece, like the sun piercing the sky after a storm. We shall rise still. Warm greetings.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful expression of grief.
ReplyDeleteWe curl up beside her as her flames begin to dim...a very poignant line... not wanting to let her go.
Loved this poem.
This is so poignant and beautiful both at the same time. A most heartfelt write, Marian.
ReplyDeleteSimple, straightforward, honest, fine.
ReplyDeleteA meaningful and well expressed tribute. ...and as you touched our hearts, a soul lives on.
ReplyDeleteLove this celebration.. such a positive feeling
ReplyDeleteThe third stanza especially just broke me.. wonderfully written.
ReplyDeleteIt is indeed quite a task – but it seems to me you handled it well, with love and truth.
ReplyDeleteEulogies are indeed difficult to write. And you have carried it out so beautifully.
ReplyDeleteHeartwarming!
-HA
Love <3
ReplyDeleteeulogies should move the listener to tears, to remembering, to the closeness of the lost one -and this one certainly did. Excellent writing -
ReplyDeleteMarian, friend, I am often very close to tears these days and your poem, the thoughts and intention behind it, have caused them to spill over.
ReplyDeleteIt is no small task to be Speaker for the Dead (see Ender Wiggin) but it is the kind of gift that is boundless and increases in the giving. How wonderful that you gave words to a bereaved person, so she could speak them at a time when words are so hard to find. What a friend you are.
sigh. you weave love so well, Marian ~
ReplyDelete