Sonoma Love Songs Poem by Bill Galvin

The ones who knew and loved you best,
We finally get together to talk about your passing,
As my tribute to you leads me furthest west,
To the Sonoma sky and sun, and a treasured sister,
To share solace and consolation;
Hoping, at the last, to be transcended by jubilation.

We’ll garner ideas, exchange feelings,
And discuss the role you played in the family,
And your lasting impact and influence upon our lives;
To help us reconcile the loss of such a gift to our world.

And the two nieces and nephew whom
You rocked and played with as babes;
Baked cookies, shared stories, as young ones;
Who brightened your spirit and face,
When you learned of their adult successes;
And who hold you today in such loving esteem,
Will gather for review and remembrance of you;
And for joy in the sprouting of a new family branch,
One you’d be so proud of.

Though you could not attend this time,
As you had for other endearing family births,
As close to a mother’s love did you supply,
Over your brave, but barren days, as devoted aunt.

As endings and beginnings go, we know
You looked down and blessed the recent birthing
Of your loved and loving niece,
Whom you held close in heart like a daughter,
That cherished little bear cub of the family.
Your presence could be felt as a graceful spirit
Gently touching upon the combined aura
Of bonded newborn and new mom.
You were heard saying one quiet eve,
“What a beautiful baby”.

So, I will stand in for you
To convey the earthly side of pride and good wishes,
That would be from you here on this plane;
Though, we should know, by now,
You have already sent your blessings from above.

4-12-2015