Rip Rbg

"All night long the northern streamers
Shot across the trembling sky:
Fearful lights, that never beckon
Save when kings or heroes die." - William Edmondstoune Aytoun

     It is rare to find heroes as an adult. Although I never had the honor of meeting her, the magnificent, empowering, and inspirational Ruth Bader Ginsburg has become one of mine. Her unceasing fight for equality, for genuine liberty, and for expecting that her intelligence and achievements be recognized has made her a woman I admire and respect. 
     Last night there was a terrific thunderstorm in my corner of the world, and combined with the sad news of RBG's passing today, I was reminded of the above quote, and was inspired to pen these lines ~

     Last night rang drums of thunder
     And the voice of lightning sang
     In oratory plunder
     Of salvation's storming rain

     Unseen, cosmic purview's
     Sacrificial overlap
     Our price now drawn
     To the stars you have gone
     Leaving this earthy vacuum to
     The memories of thunderclaps.

9/18/20
Copyright © | Year Posted 2020

Poem

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Ashley Avatar
September 28, 2020 at 5:54 PM
Michelle, I feel the same about the Notorious RBG (a moniker she graciously embraced with her playful spirit) as you do. Your tribute to her is as potent and beautiful as it is personal - I love how you wove your thunderstorm experience and her passing into dramatic imagery that is both moving and triumphant! Your last line is amazing! Rest in peace, Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Though tiny in stature she was a Giant! A fav! Warmest wishes, dear friend and poetess.. ~Susan
Faulkner Avatar
September 29, 2020 at 8:10 PM
Yes she was a giant, and her legacy will live, immortal - am always thrilled to hear from you, must read some of your amazing poetry soon!
Onclaud Avatar
September 21, 2020 at 9:04 AM
i watched a movie about her and she made me believe more about my own heritage as a person and a woman... long live, justice ruth... your remarkable poetry shines, michelle...huggs
Leffanta Avatar
September 19, 2020 at 11:52 AM
America's original Power Pack! One Ruth who never turned back! Our last semblance of integrity has gone so no wonder the earth shook! Aloha! Rico
Cunningham Avatar
September 18, 2020 at 11:41 PM
Beautiful tribute Michelle, I must admit I hadnt heard of her until yesterday and read of her passing in the news. From what I read and your tribute I know she was a great inspiration. May she Rest In Peace. Tom
Woodrow Avatar
September 18, 2020 at 10:38 PM
lovely tribute - she was a real heroine for young girls who need more like her to boost their dreams and self esteem :).
Watt Avatar
September 18, 2020 at 10:37 PM
Michelle, thank you for this. A beautiful tribute to a great woman of integrity and wisdom. It is sad that we have lost a leader of such quality, and that you have lost a personal hero. Your words are fitting; may the thunderclap of liberty and equality long ring out in our world as a result of her life and service to our country. Well said, my friend.
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