Gone From My Sight

This week brought together grief and poetry in an unexpected way. The images in this poem, are ones I will hold onto for days.

One day last year, while visiting my friend Ann, her husband Carm complained that he badly needed a hair cut. Having helped a few of my elderly friends with their bushy eyebrows and graying locks, I offered my help. Soon I was setting up of my barber shop, once a month in their kitchen. There's something about cutting someone's hair that feels so close and intimate. I always feel humbled when I can help someone in this way.

Me and my dear friend, Ann.

While I combed and snipped, Carm would talk about the latest politics or the overide for the school budget that was"just not right!" He was a history teacher for many years with a loud and sometimes gruff voice, but I could see underneath his exterior a small soft spot. It snuck out once in a while in a smile, when I handed him my phone so he could see the results of my efforts and tell me if I missed anything.

Last Monday, while Ann was serving lunch, Carm suddenly collapsed, and after 4 days went home to God. He was 85 and at that age, things happen... But it was Ann's husband of 54 years and when the "two who become one" are separated, it is tough no matter how old or young.

At the funeral, Carm's brother read a beautiful poem, "Gone from My Sight"by Henry VanDyke, that had extra meaning for this couple who loved Maine. I though it was just beautiful and wanted to share it.

Happy Poetry Friday everyone.

Hope these images bring comfort to anyone missing someone they love.

Check out the other lovely poems here. Thank you Karen Edmisten for hosting this week!