Too Soon

Too Soon

A life well-lived,
               compassion shown
               in every passing hour.
The full bloom
               reached and beauty
               shown--a magnificent flower!

One day the precious
               bloom is lost,
               and true heartache ensues.
We search to find
               some meaning in those
               wilted, fading hues.

Why must we lose
               the beauty and the
               comfort we have known?
What purpose can
               we find now that
               we face this time alone?

The Master Gard'ner
               knows why, and His
               purpose is served there.
He placed that plant
               so tenderly, and
               He provides its care.

So trusting Him,
               we look to find
               the purpose in our pain.
For with that trust,
               we soothe our hearts--
               our suff'ring's not in vain.

A peace flows forth
               from fountains pure,
               and heals our aching heart.
Then once again
               we find sweet mem'ries
               never more to part.

And then one day
               in brighter light
               we'll reach beyond the veil.
And love's embrace
               will then erase
               and make the absence pale.

O Master Gard'ner
               grant that we
               may trust in thy great love.
And help us to
               accept thy will
               and mercy from above.

(9-24-14)
Dedicated to Ana Preto-Bay.  Ana was my neighbor and friend.  I taught her son in school last year.  Her passing was a shock and I wrote this poem to give to her husband.