GRIEF

I didn't know a heart could die

Before it stopped beating.

I didn't know a life could cease

Before it stopped breathing.

I didn't know how devastation

Could wend a living soul

I didn't know how death could make

Us lose all self control.

I didn't know the pain of loss

Was so intense and sharp.

I didn't know the depth of void

Death leaves within the heart.

I didn't know how often tears

Would redden hurting eyes.

I didn't know how hard it was

To say one's last good-byes.

I didn't know that pain would come

And go as it well pleased.

I didn't know that joy is scarce

To those who are bereaved.

I didn't know that time would stop

And meaning cease to be.

I didn't know that friends would pray

But shy away from me.

I didn't know how difficult

To get the whole night through.

I didn't know the strength it took

For simple tasks to do.

 I didn't know that as time pass

Slowly, the pain subsides.

I didn't know what I thought was lost

Still in my heart resides.

Now I know a little spark,

Somehow in me remained.

Now I know that someway,

My life will be sustained.

Now I know the feelings felt,

Was all a part of grief.

Now I know how fervent prayer

Helped me to find relief.

So rest assured my unknown friends,

Though healing comes real slow.

It actually does get better

      For now, I truly know.

For I’ve survived my baby’s death

      That occurred this time last year.

I still feel the loss and always will

      But the pain is much less severe.