Anna Hanson Died
Anna Hanson died on her birthday,
“She had a seizure, swallowed her tongue.”
three hours before her 13th year had begun.
“What is epilepsy?” We needed to know.
Pretty packages, ribbons and bows,
Never to be enjoyed ... like forgotten cake
No birthday...just a wake.
… no gifts required...
Her party dress became burial attire
Joining her parents,
we will never forget
that a long life is quickly shortened by death.
The cruelty of life bloomed at twelve.
Breaking our fragile protective shells
Becoming a teen ager is harder for some.
Copyright © Kristie Raburn | Year Posted 2020
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