To One Who Died Alone

I will remember you, but not like this. You lying alone, with only the ventilator for company; searching for air where there is none; looking for a face, a hand to hold, a memory--something to cling to through this darkness, even a goodbye. No! I will remember you in the early morning when I feed the birds you loved. I will remember you when I walk alone in the woods we once walked together. I will remember you in the evening as I search for a glimpse of you among the stars. I will think of you as young and strong--fearless! When each sunrise was a promise of many. I will think of your laughter, your tears, your playfulness, your strong will, our moments of quietness together. All the ways you touched my heart, I will remember you.