we shall not fail

however grand the life
death is never far––

why do some of the finest
& kindest among us in this world
suffer so?

why have their hearts been
torn out of their lives––

once,
and then again &
again?

we do not understand.

death of a loved one
is the catastrophe we
most fear

how does a flickering human
soul transform grief
into nobility?

step by trembling step.

show us how to keep
going––
teach us how to carry-
on

be strong
be brave
hold back, just for now,
the tears

every step honors the
dead––
every step brings
dignity to the living

step-by-step following
the heartbeat