In Memory

Yesterday I sat with a giant
I held her hand, cold like marble and white like ivory
I stroked her face, gnarled over time yet still beautiful 
Even though frail and full of fears she held herself with dignity and pride
She had such presence in her frailty as she lay struggling for life’s very breath
There was an aura that made you want to capture those final hours and take it away with you
I didn’t want her to leave but leave she must
Further on and further in, dancing with angels and with friends and family who have gone before
A survivor of the horrors that war brings to families, the ghosts of her childhood have finally been laid to rest, 
She was transparently honest, nothing hidden that one day maybe you would trip up over and lose your balance 
No retribution to fear or complexity to manoeuvre around
Thats why I loved her
Because the giant was fully known and nothing was hidden 
Extraordinarily generous, lighthearted and funny, kind and caring, a mother of many
She never flaunted her beauty or wallowed in wealth
No heights of perfection we all needed to attain
Just honesty with others and simplicity with self
One day I will walk with that giant again

Love you Mum
 
It’s time to live again