The Parting Gift

I love words. I love stories. But I suck at communicating. I “see” everything so clearly in my mind, but most of the time I can’t accurately express what I’m thinking. Writing helps. But sometimes all I can muster is fragments. And honestly I never had any intention of sharing this as it’s not my typical “no nonsense, tell-it-like-I-see-it” style. But sometimes stepping out of one’s comfort zone is just what is needed. So while my brain has been a whirlwind lately of ALL the things, for now, this is all I can put to paper. But that’s ok. This is for me. But maybe, just maybe, this might be for you too.

some days I get overwhelmed

with the lack of memories. the lack of smiles embedded in my mind.

I feel like an imposter aching for what I do not know.

but some days I think of you. and I smile for no reason.

the sun shines just a little bit brighter. the wind blows just a little bit harder. 

and I know. Peace. 

No, acceptance.

you were meant to fly.

higher. but sooner. 

your smile carried a little bit more. and it stayed behind a little bit longer. 

Infectious.

some need a lifetime to live to be remembered. some never are. and then some were born to be remembered forever.

the Lucky one.

the rest of us push ourselves forward bit by bit. searching for your footprints, searching for your way.

day after day.

week after week.

year after year.

Until we understand.

your parting gift, your sacrifice.

only now can we see the beauty of putting one foot in front of another and appreciate our ability to step forward.

an expanded vision of our own days ahead.

together. apart. 

but never alone.