An Easter of Mixed Emotions

Easter weekend, Friends and Family
Kids running wild with thoughts of bunnies and baskets
Shopping for candy when the cell phone called to me
Another dearly beloved has been called to her casket

How do you remember the wonders of spring?
Or remain playful with kids as they bounce?
How do you celebrate rebirth and show joy
When your sorrow increases by the ounce?

As a mom you hide more than eggs, more than candy,
you show the smile you're expected to wear.
You pray that your strength as a parent won't fail you
As your heart sinks into despair.

The eggs are all colored the candy all found
The children all happy and playing.
You find the time and the silence to sit alone for a moment
And cry to the lord while you're praying.

Dear Lord Thank you for the wonders of spring
For the son you gave us so dear
Thank you for my children and their smiles and songs
And letting me live right now and right here

Thank you for the strength to be a good parent
no matter what the world puts before me
And please take care of those that are gone
So that I may join them at the end of my journey.

-in memory of Barbara