My mother was born 99 years ago today. She passed away in 1997, almost 20 years ago, and I still miss her. I wrote this poem for her a couple of years ago.

 

 For Mom on Her 97th Birthday

 

Beyond the stars, above the sky,

Beyond the what, beyond the why,

 

Beyond the know, beyond the known,

Beyond the wind, that’s where you’ve flown.

 

Beyond the which, beyond the how,

Beyond the who, I feel you now.

 

Beyond the hurt, beyond the shame,

Beyond the need to bruise, to blame.

 

Beyond the conflicts and the wars,

Beyond the healing and the scars.

 

Beyond my touch and out of reach,

There’s nothing left to learn or teach.

 

Beyond this life, beyond all time

You’re there at peace, in place sublime.

 

Beyond all hope, beyond all doubt,

You’re part of me, within, without.

 

In time to come, beyond despair,

Beyond relief, I’ll join you there.