with hope
that bears not reason
some other time
awaits
as shadows to the leaving –
a stranger
at the gate

gathers yet
these orchids
we planted on our way
and worries not
the chill
of yesterday

of human hands
immortal hearts
wear true
the soul to soul –
memories of presence
in living
shall unfold

soft against
these fading lights
– to know
because we feel
a moment
unsurrendered
resolves to hold us
still

. . .