This Time of Year- For Jean Jack

I smiled at you as you sang Christmas song you stood enthronged by others, bringing cheer my heart was sad; it thought of all that's wrong and why must sadness come this time of year My heart was not in tune to every note To you alone I looked and tried to smile The words of Christmas hymns I knew by rote But happiness was missing for a while I later saw you getting in your car, and I came by to give you warm embrace. I sensed that you were sad, even from far, and then I saw the pain etched in your face. Why did I have to ask when it was clear the reason for the glistening of those tears this Christmas was the first without her near the mother you had loved down through the years What words can soothe the aching of your heart when pain is few months old and wound is deep For healing takes its time, and will not part And so for now my soul with yours will weep Your mother was a woman full of love I know you were the apple of her eye and now turn tear filled eyes to God above My dear, he knows your hurt and hears your sigh The pain will ease, but it will never leave I know, for I have lost my mother too like you in dreams I see her, and I grieve Though gone, their love remains for me and you Remember, dear, for us God sent His Son This time of year reminds us of His grace For over death, the victory He's won! Be sure one day you'll see your mother's face! Eileen Manassian Written for Jean Jack Kareh December 15, 2017