Wave after wave of grief washed over me,
sadness so profound 
the world seemed desolate and forlorn,
like being exposed to the stinging rain 
and blistering wind
on wave crests at the height of a storm

Between bleak crests were moments
of consolation offered by caring friends, 
or comforting memories,
perhaps a joke to soften the pain, 
like valleys between waves 
give some respite 
from the bitterness of a storm.

But sadness always lurked nearby.

More waves swept over me, 
half drowning in tears 
the brief times of relief.

Every now and then a soothing calm
came between the waves of sadness.

A part of me, a very dear part of me, 
was lost, but preserved in memories 
in the inner, unchangeable relationship 
that remains after the loved one is gone. 

Yet through the tears
I knew the pain would someday ease, 
but never really leave; 
the sun would shine again, 
almost as bright as ever.               

               May, 2009