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Kaylene Johnson-Sullivan's avatar

“It was a garden once but now forlorn

it lies beneath a long, unbroken night,

and you know what it costs to be reborn.”

This poem moves me deeply. Today I put lights on a Christmas tree I did not want. My son gifted it to me, but without my Beloved, tears arise with every note of holiday cheer. It is a humble tree and lovely. But I am bereft, his picture on the shelf, and as I string lights, I beg, “Lord pass me by.”

Kate Bluett's avatar

I'm so sorry for your loss.

Darrell A. Harris's avatar

My 36 year old Dad passed suddenly from this life with I was 13. I cannot imagine your loss but, knowing what little I know of loss, my heart breaks for you. You are loved. And you are in our prayers, Kaylene~

Clara York's avatar

Lovely.

Ann Collins's avatar

In this moment, you approach the tiny babe lying in a cave, with humility and so much beauty. Thank you, Kate, for showing us another door into the season.

Melanie Bettinelli's avatar

Oh I have been here. Such a familiar landscape.

Kate Bluett's avatar

Yup

Unfortunately.

Mark Rico's avatar

Kate, this is the most powerful of your poems that I can recall. Devastating and still with inherent loveliness.

Kate Bluett's avatar

Thank you so much. It felt kind of devastating to write, too, but sometimes that's where the good stuff happens.

Mark Rico's avatar

I would imagine it did. Thank you for sharing it. As one who has been a desert, it was a blessing to read.

Darrell A. Harris's avatar

Kate, we continue to be enlightened and enriched by your writing and you continue in our prayers~

Kate Bluett's avatar

Thank you so much.