Yesterday, I promised

to see you again.

I listened to the deafening silence

As you confronted the tenuousness

of your existence

I hugged you

As your frail body was

wracked with the sobs of

your lost hope.

Today, I held your hand

and felt the coolness of

the peace coursing through

your veins.

I said goodbye

And, you’ll never know

I was here.

I promised. Goodbye.

J_____, full of grace.