For Cousin Carrie (1959-2016)

The night calmly, quietly departed,

Letting the sun nudge in the dawn.

A new day often brings joy,

But not today, for Carrie has gone.

 

A torch has suddenly been extinguished;

A candle's flickering flame has gone out.

As hard as we try to hope against hope,

Some things we can do nothing about.

 

Full of life, exuberance, and charm,

Carrie touched many hearts with her spirit.

Try as one might to match her vitality,

Few people could ever come near it.

 

Her matchless energy filled us with wonder.

Her gregarious character was lively and hearty.

As soon as Carrie entered a room,

She became the life of the party.

 

A struggle-free path she didn't have;

A few demons madly pursued her.

Despite occasional challenges,

Death was the only one that subdued her.

 

Subdue her? No, that isn't right.

Her inimitable energy exists

In the turbulent, blowing desert winds;

In the cool, soothing mountain mists;

 

In the majestic, glorious New Mexican mesas;

In the gently rising hot air balloon;

In the crest of the regal desert roadrunner;

In the calm, peaceful face of the moon;

 

In the gracefully blooming yucca flower;

In the crisp, caressing autumn breeze;

In desert blooms; in the pinyon pine;

In the autumn colors bursting from trees.

 

I will not say good-bye to Carrie.

I'll just take in a breath of air,

Hear her voice, her songs, her laughter,

And feel her presence everywhere.

 

(5-7-16)