Grandma lived her loves. She took effort and initiative to pursue and enjoy what brought her the most pleasure: family and friends, good food, fishing, nature, ceramics, nice things and good books. (Up until a few months ago, Grandma was a regular patron of the Mooresville library, often reading a couple of books a week!) Many of David's and my loves today were influenced by Grandma and Grandpa's loves. (They introduced me to a love of birds, for those who know that about me.) What we love says much about us. What Grandma loved gave shape to her beautiful soul and beautiful life.
Two hours before Grandma died, David witnessed a peculiar, once-in-a-lifetime sight. He was shoveling snow, heard a loud, wild sound above his head and saw 50 or more white egret flying in an arc. They were heading southwest (the direction of Mooresville). After we found out that Grandma had died, he reflected on that experience and wrote this poem. He gave me permission to share it with you.
I am
sad
yet happy
The life
lived before me
lives on
Replenished
Exhaled
A wild migration
accompanied
by 50 great winged ones
The simple and true one
gone
Positivity, optimism
departed
Yet lingering long,
an unforgettable
perfume
remains,
surrounds,
breathed in
as a kiss.
Another artist
of exotic cooking,
ceramics and canning
A reader of stories
who mended her mind
with determined pleasure
A woman in waders
or furs
risking desire unafraid.
My history
merges with so many others
with her
most of all
today.
Her story woven
in treasured
memories, photographs,
furnishings and trinkets.
A life has a halo
an after effect
that changes
we who watch.
Changes we who are touched
by a grace
seldom seen.
Breathe again
united to deeper loves
Rest in renewed
peace
Strengthened and carried
to love
and live
Unrestrained,
unfiltered
both
here and
where-ever
The first volume
finished
The pen returned
the tale savored
and retired
with a smile.
12/5/2010 (Grandma Theising is gone.)
