I have walked the silent paths of grief
Since I made my choice to care for him
I have slept on beds of cold dead leaves.

I do not want to claim that death’s a thief
Although my heart’s dear light and joy have gone.
I have never felt I was deceived.

I have learned that human life’s too brief.
I have learned by sorrow I’m undone.
I have sifted earth and what’s beneath.

I have felt the dark emotions seethe
While I have been mocked by cruel sun.
I have learned the geography of grief.

I wait on earth for senseless life to cease
Or will a fluttering wing make chaos come,
Change my heart and give me a fresh lease?

Catastrophic grief can make us dumb
Into our hearts we drag the ice that numbs
I have walked the silent paths of grief
I have slept on beds of winter leaves