God gave us our memories so we can have our roses in December’ James Joyce

Mom's Jewellery Box

I open mom’s jewellery box
“I love you truly” plays
As did the ballerina pirouette
Like it did long yesterdays
Lovingly in wine velvet set
Items light up from the box
I look at it with eyes distressed
Jewellery of happy times lost
The gold chained with its crucifix
A wedding band of gold
The basket weave bracelet
To touch and to hold
A strand of pearls
A diamond ear ring set
A cameo brooch
All received with tenderness
Neither mom nor dad is at my side
For they are no longer here
Both have long since died

Now the lid remains open
My eyes brimming with tears
The music is slowing down
Jewellery not worn in years
Except for the basket weave bracelet
I wear my mom’s pearls of tears

Beryl McMullen