My sister, Cheri, died in May 1998 of complications from leukemia. She was 51. This is for 'Che'...

Married to the road, a Dodge van and motel keys

You were 'Sweetheart of the Rodeo' like Emmy Lou said in a song

Your life was a circus, a big top world, a bevy of clowns as companions

Wedded to the white line you took your vows seriously

A dark-haired beauty, Elvis and The Eagles kept you company

Only looked back when the lonliness of the desert echoed back to you

When you finally left the highway behind you, 'Texas In My Rear View Mirror' was your theme song

You flew a "Northerner" flag and came back home a winged bird

Lit fires, planted gardens and nurtured all of us and every living thing from your nest

You were fiery and brilliant, a red robin in the treed valley

Up until the time a cold hand tried to snuff your song, you fought to sing triumphant

Your loving presence still lingers here where the magpies call in moarning

The clowns sit mute with black tears on white face, their lips painted in permanent frowns