The bell rings, over a silent gravelled avenue
Ground not yet disturbed, no mourners queue
Evergreens sway gently in the mid-April air,
As squirrel scurries up the branches, unaware
The bell rings again, followed the sound of tyres on stone
In the distance, the priest waits at the wooden door, alone
No handshakes, no guard of honour, no embrace
Rubbed mascara stains a masked face
A family of twenty seven extended through the years
Now reduced to ten plus one, distanced on cold pews, amid guidelines and fears
The eulogy cut short, it only echoes the pain they feel
Some say there will be time in time, and time it helps to heal
Time to hug and reminisce, time to raise a glass
Those so loved in life, their death shall not just pass.
Layla has had work published in Bray Arts Journal and has read her poetry at various events. She shares her writing and her every day life on Instagram
Layla …. simple words to describe the saddest time….the farewell….so important for the treasured people we share lifes road with… well done.
Really makes you think about what people are going through at this very sad time for so many. Your Words Express so much. Well read yesterday Layla.
This brought a tear to my eye yesterday as you read it. The pain and sorrow for so many.
How will people cope at saying goodbye to loved ones like this.