My brother's poem for my mother

This is a poem my brother, Jon, wrote for my mother some years ago on mother's day, long before he ever dreamed of having children.. The evening before she passed, he knelt by her side, his arm wrapped around his three young boys, and recited this poem to her. (This was one of many beautiful revelations that I witnessed during our vigil. The shared experience calls forth layers of spirit our ordinary lives don't reveal.)

time passes by
like breath through our lips
and each day I smile
from the warm place in my heart
that is forever filled by you
as it fills the hearts of my children
and my children's children

. . . forever.

jon

One Deep Breath: Comfort

Today's entry is offered with heart-felt condolences to Jennifer and her family. It seems we have been making kindred journeys. On July 14th, my mother also passed from this life. She managed to wait until my entire family gathered around her, and we spent an amazing week, sharing a vigil by her side. Up until the last moment (and perhaps beyond), I continue to learn from her.

During her last few weeks, I often had music playing that my mother loved. Among the pieces was a Bill Staines song, "River". She used to sing along with the chorus;

"River, take me along
In your sunshine, sing me a song
Ever moving, and winding and free;
You rolling old river, you changing old river,
Let's you and me, river, run down to the sea."

Midwiving Mother

sitting by her side
holding her hand, time for words
is past, no longer
able to breathe with her the
long, breathless breaths, our
prayers gathering, building a
bridge, body labors
to free the spirit

tide goes out, peace comes
in, releasing the bonds to
spirit, river flows to sea