This is my first landay poem. I found this format at Amy Ludwig Vanderwater's blog site and also at Writer's Digest. I thought it would fit my thoughts, so I chose to write three couplets with themes stretching from love, nature, and grief.
Love: When moving to Virginia from Long Island, New York, we searched many areas to find our retirement home. The intent was to live close to my daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren. We wanted a new home built to our expectations in a small community of kindhearted, family-based neighbors. We were blessed to find both.
Nature: Gainesville, Virginia, is a beautiful area close to Washington, DC and the countryside. Since we enjoyed our spacious gardens in Long Island, we decided to build a few on our new property. Each season, we added a few more plants, flowers, and bushes. Since 2021, nature has nurtured us.
Grief: I often say life is fragile and uncertain. Since last May, the thought became a reality. We only had less than a month to care for Richard. Writing offered me time to empty the sadness inside. The inspirational quote by Mahmoud Darwish, "I see poetry as spiritual medicine", provided an anchor for me on my spiritual journey.
Richard's time on earth has passed. The Funeral Mass had a lasting effect on our family but now is not the last time for the family to celebrate Richard's life. The cards, gifts, meals, masses, prayers, and listeners are coming our way to soothe the bereavement period.
Thank you for joining me as I remember memorable parts of my 48 years of marriage. This summer, I will cherish our wedding day, followed by the first day I met my husband. I appreciate everyone who acknowledges Richard's life, friendships, and love for family.
I send my thoughts to this week's Poetry Friday Roundup host, Jone Rush MacCulloch, a dear writing friend, poet, author, and artist who appreciates love, nature, family, and writing as much as I do.
Thank you Jone, for adding a beautiful spring poem to your Sunday Solace blog. I wrote a quick haiku to honor your photographic skills.
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So beautiful, Carol. Thank you for your generosity and bravery sharing this current grief in ways that will resonate with others for a long time to come. You continue to be in my heart and prayers.
ReplyDeleteRobyn, thank your for your comment that brings me closer to others through prayer. It makes me feel that telling my story is the right move for me. Happy Weekend! Easter is a wonderful time to celebrate children.
DeleteCarol, beautiful words that connect us to you and your loss. "Will your voice find mine?" sparks such a sadness in me for you. Keep writing and sharing. I hope that it will bring you strength and peace through this difficult time.
ReplyDeleteMargaret, I am fortunate to have your friendship. This morning was difficult for me but your comment and hopes for me sparked me to move forward.
DeleteMargaret, I can't thank you enough for you comment that makes me smile on the spring day. Grief sits on my shoulder but the muse knows when I should pick up my pen to write.
DeletePoetry is perfect for holding nature, love, and grief, Carol. I'm glad you will be sharing your special commemorations of Richard with us.
ReplyDeleteThank you for continuing to share what's in your heart about Richard's passing and your life with him through your poems, Carol. Writing is restorative and healing; honored to bear witness.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your thoughts and feelings through this Afghan poetic form. You've been in my thoughts and prayers this week as you navigate this loss. I hope you continue to write and heal with thoughts that you can share with those who care for you. ~Carol Labuzzetta~
ReplyDelete"will your voice find mine on the edge of dampened darkness..." wow. Wow. There is such power and emotion in your words Carol. I hope your grieving process is healing. Keep writing.
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ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing your heartfelt and moving landay poem Carol, I feel the yearning in your voice. Sending more hugs and much warmth your way, xox.
ReplyDeleteSo beautiful and moving, Carol.
ReplyDeleteI am just learning of your loss, Carol. You have my deepest condolences. I admire your courage in sharing your thoughts and feelings with us. I pray poetry will help console you.
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