What is Grief

Grief 

is like 

a feather

light

brief

floating

like a leaf

in a gentle breeze

waiting to be struck

let loose

to drift

without destiny

to uncertainty

like a thought

fleeting

forgotten detail

but essence remembered.

*

Grief 

is like 

a moment

a breath

a wish

too delicate to articulate

and yet impenetrable force

that interferes 

from time to time

but mostly just hangs

in the background

unspeaking

yet loud.

*

Grief

is like 

loneliness

it sits

and waits

for attention

that may never come

but when it does

it floods and moans

and quakes

at the presence of

notice.

*

Grief

is quiet

still

and strong

relentlessly

loyal

unquenchably

patient

and faithful.

*

Grief 

is like the tide

ebbing

flowing

never-ending

waves of power

spraying

mist of memory

mixed with 

hope

of something different

outcome fixed

but still

incredible

defeated

yet hopeful

grief is consoled

forgiven

forgotten

replaced with 

love, tranquility

and grace.

*

Grief

is not loss

but memory

of what was lost

becoming warm

and perfect

and mystical

contentment

rises

grief subsides

and life continues

somewhat changed

but fervent

hopeful

unashamed.