Tuesday, December 14, 2010

To Break the Hold (Poem)



To Break the Hold

Pictures
I have of you
a heavy red and blue fringed blanket
brought from Arizona,
that deep-dish casserole from France,
and the last hug after the last ride with you
down a Venice boulevard.

The way you looked and the sound
of your voice
I have of you
from the last time
till now
are not enough.

But I will put the ring of evergreen
against unyielding earth,
adorn it with berries bright and raw
and, lighting the last candle,
allow my tears to break
the hand that's winter's hold.

© 2010 Maureen E. Doallas
_______________________________

I offer this poem for the Christmas in Verse group writing project at The High Calling.

Anyone may participate. Take the "unspeakable big things" of Christmas — family, grief, Christ, celebration, laughter — and share them through "something small": a poem, a picture, a video, a Bible or song verse, anything at all that will give voice to response. Post your offering on your blog and leave your link in the comments section here by Wednesday, December 15. Link back and take a moment to visit others' sites, too.

9 comments:

Louise Gallagher said...

And if I could
take your hand
I would lead you into spring.

Hugs.

S. Etole said...

and we go on ...

Unknown said...

Hauntingly beautiful! ((hugs))

Susanne Barrett said...

Absolutely stunning. You leave me breathless, Maureen.

Still working on my contribution for this prompt....

L.L. Barkat said...

I really, really liked this...

"But I will put the ring of evergreen
against unyielding earth"

Speaks what is unspeakable.

Laura said...

This makes me sad. And I am thankful for the rituals that give us permission for tears to flow free--to stop and feel the grief fully. Blessings, Maureen.

SimplyDarlene said...

I have read this several times and find something new it your words each time. Wow, there is so much emotion here.

Blessings.

Anonymous said...

Your poetry always brings me to deep places in my heart. Thank you for sharing your gift of words.

Louise Gallagher said...

Grateful you brought this gem forward -- and I found it again this morning. Blessings my friend.