Journey

Since we last spoke
two people told me their moms died
It happens all the time, but each one seems so special

I was driving on the West Side Highway
to see Camille and passed the walking bridge
where we crossed to put Mary's ashes in the river

I thought about the ebb and flow
Time is a river. Life is a highway
I held my breath. I closed my eyes

I saw how important it is to care for others,
to have someone care about you
There are a lot of other souls on that same road

I must have been driving or floating in
this wondrous state for several miles,
then realized I better pay closer attention to the road

I opened my eyes, rolled down the window
Took a deep breath, looked around
The river flows. This moment passes

So, pay attention to the exit signs
and you'll be kinder to others,
on the journey over river or road

Stoneman

2016 February 6