For My Nana

September 4, the anniversary of my nana’s death. I wrote this poem in her memory. I miss her deeply and love her even more.

I.

An early evening breeze blows runaway curls across my eyelashes

Well-manicured blades of grass kiss the backs of my thighs

Sunlight twists through crevices of branches 

Where do you choose to let your world change?

II.

The phone’s ringtone was the interlude to a song I never wanted to hear

Its melody is too brief to allow comfort

I know what’s on the other end 

Silence replaces the rhythmic dial tone until 

Reality replaces anticipation

You’re gone

III.

Time is supposed to be a balm to loss

But the edges of my heartbreak have not grown smooth 

The tides of grief keep them sharp 

The cuts might scab but 

The wounds are too deep to heal

IV. 

Nail salons frequented by women with rounded acrylics

Periwinkle threads of your favorite sweatshirt 

Hums of sewing machines and clashing knitting needles

I look for you here

V. 

A childhood spent cocooned in your arms

Our paths are fused 

Our spirits intertwined 

Your last words to me 

I’ll love you forever 

Two years later in the early evening breeze 

I whisper back 

Me too 

from my previous blog posted on 09.04.20