there are parts of life
almost too crushing to share
pain like razors across the heart
the way, for instance,
my daughter’s body is being eaten
from the inside out by cancer
but i must share with you
how a devoted mother of two
calmly accepts what is approaching
she is at peace with the universe
and appreciates every moment
of what is beautiful in her life
i must tell you this
even though and maybe because
of the pain it brings to her father
i must tell you this
from a place of deepest love
and grief all mixed as one
so that you might look up
in this instant and know
what is important and true
the undying Love within you
©John Greenleaf-Maple – text and art
– in gratitude to beloved friends