An Ode To Those I Love

Poem by Saunder Strong, March 2021

An Ode To Those I love

I don’t think the sun will come out today.

The world is no fun. It’s all joyless play.

For a long time it has been this way.

A war has hardened my heart like clay.

I feel the presence of grieving.

I celebrate those that meet Him.

I smile when they are leaving

As the choir sings the last hymn.

I leave the chapel into the warm light.

But darkness consumes the path ahead.

It is just fine. I feel no need to fight.

Soon a River of my own will run red.

This is a farewell ode to all those I love.

Took me to their abode.

Made me feasts on their stove.

In return a firm shake or friendly hug

As they swept my baggage under the rug.

I am blessed to have seen many faces;

Seen their light and beauty under their loads.

And those who are optimistic chases

The sun as the land behind them corrodes.

When the land behind catches me…

I will rest for I have been freed.

Have no fear I am not leaving you.

My body will be left beneath you.

My spirit will see the world for you.