Betty

it's the way that the tears came all at once,

like lightning out of a cumulus. 

and the facebook notifications were so sudden,

people assuring that they're praying for us.

and suddenly the tree branches moving in the wind

were miracles, because her body will never move again.

it's the way that she became a husk,

an empty candy wrapper,

and though the sweet stuff may be gone

at least she's somewhere happier.

and we'll miss her at christmas

coming over every year

and this thanksgiving will be hard

and everyone will shed a few tears

for the woman who lived well

and died when she was ready.

she's better off where she is now,

and in that opinion i am steady.

goodbye, we love you, you will be missed.

have fun in the afterlife, betty.

August 6th, 1933 - August 22nd, 2015

m.e.