I understand the howling emptiness
that rushes toward you
as you swim away,
the child on your back
she’s not a burden
I know what you’re swimming toward
carrying your heavy truth,
the reality not yet sinking in
The love has nowhere to go
except into the quiet shape
that coasts with you
on your necessary quest
The pod knows this
holding you up when you falter
honoring the motionless sorrow
that will never quite leave you
even when her body
is long gone
I know you ache from a grief
heavier than the ocean
I know the darkness
that swallows your days
Take the time you need
the world must be patient
Take the time you need
and know my hands feel you
my eyes see you
my heart sends love and a promise
You can go on, if you choose
but that choice is yours alone