Time grew short

tears in her eyes

relaying history

before she dies

Life began in the thirties

with laughter and cheer

a home birth

older siblings near

Childhood filled with

hardship and pain

the Great Depression

still liked to dance in the rain

Became a teacher

met her heart’s desire

a wonderful man

singing in a choir

The children came

traveled the world

till the Vietnam war

and chaos unfurled

An avid reader

writer of books

seen only by her family

tucked quietly in a nook

Difficult year

when her husband died

after a long illness

long she cried

Living in an apartment

called it a tree house

beautiful views

quiet as a mouse

Living in a nursing home

lost her eyesight

still even in the darkness

she could see the light

Tragedy took her children

leaving her in this life alone

still the smiles came

thinking of home

The day came recently when

those eyes closed forever

spirits there to guide her

to a place that is better

It was an honor to know my aunt

to see joy amid all the strife

strong and beautiful

truly a blessed life