Cast a Long Shadow

Cast a Long Shadow

I used to fear those shadows that lurked underneath my bed,
following my every footstep and filling me with dread.

I hated the darkness that trailed every move I ever made.
It was there when I tried to outrun it; it was there even when I stayed.

As I became an adult, the shadows remained; they even invaded my mind.
Past-due bills and heartaches; there was little but darkness to find.

But there was always one shadow that made life seem so carefree.
It matched my every step until the day I turned thirty-three.

When we laid Grandpa to rest on the day of my birth
The sun cast a fitting shadow as he was lowered into the earth.

Just like before, that shadow filled me with calm and ease,
the only time the darkness didn’t bring me to my knees.

The shadows of my time are now nearing their end;
I’m facing the biggest darkness of all; a refracted light that cannot bend.

I know my departure will cast a long shadow on those I leave behind.
They, too, will struggle with darkness as it permeates each mind.

But my arrival Above will be welcomed with Grandpa leading the crowd 
and we will all stroll together where shadows aren’t allowed.

Copyright © | Year Posted 2019



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Date: 10/3/2019 9:36:00 PM
Welcome to PoetrySoup, Gigi. I look forward to reading many more of your wonderful poems.
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Date: 10/3/2019 7:28:00 PM
Just wanted to let you know that I absolutely LOVED your poem. You're so talented, Gigi:-) It saddened me to N/A it because it's a rhyme poem, not enclosed rhyme. Don't be discouraged. I wish you better luck in my next contest! God bless...
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Thrasher Avatar
Gigi Thrasher
Date: 10/3/2019 9:45:00 PM
Thank you, Edward. I need to study the poetry types. I think my knowledge ends on the junior high level that I taught lol. I appreciate the encouragement. I will learn!!
Date: 9/30/2019 6:59:00 PM
How you express yourself is what makes your poetry input unique and qualifies it as art my friend, very well written, Emile.
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Date: 9/29/2019 6:50:00 PM
I know what you mean that when you lose a loved one somehow the fear and dread of death are lessened or even gone. Especially love that last line! Welcome to Poetry Soup :)
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Date: 9/29/2019 4:30:00 PM
Ah, I do believe your grandfather knows of this poem and is so proud of you for writing it in his honor.
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