Thurman P. Woodfork

LOSS

Thurman P. Woodfork: Loss Memorial Day is here again,
May ushers Spring to its end;
we gather to commemorate
the loss of family and friends.

The sun is bright, the day is warm,
loved ones slumber, safe from harm;
banners wave against azure skies,
I stand silent with moistened eyes.

My heart is full, yet empty, too;
aching bereavement rises anew
for those who lie beneath this sod,
waiting to awaken in the arms of God,

too soon gone, too long away.
I stand quietly on this special day,
just a little forlorn and alone
beside the silent marble stones.

Do they know that I am here?
Do they see my unshed tears?
Do they know it’s for myself I weep
here above their hallowed sleep?