Eulogies

At funerals, we listen as The anecdotes are shared. Some speakers prattle off the cuff While others are prepared. The congregation laughs when tales Embody the deceased. Those chortles let the tears subside As tension is released. As relatives and friends reflect, Each listener may wonder, What stories will be told of me When I’ll be six feet under? A life that lasted decades Leaves a void, to some, immense; Yet just a few examples And that essence we condense. The mourners may be left with wisps Defining the departed, Such quick-drawn sketches meant to soothe The not-so-broken-hearted. Vignettes can only say so much, Though comfort they provide. To those who count, there’s much more left Than words, when someone’s died.