FRIENDS

By Kathy Armijo

June 2007

My best friend’s husband just died.

The usual condolences are insufficient and commonplace.

Together we cling to each other and cry.

Together we try to make sense of this tragedy.

Together we remember.

We are each left wounded,

She for her loss and

Me for my inadequacies.

Tomorrow the sun will shine, but

Her tomorrow is dim.

She cared so much for him.

Their love and memories will sustain her

During sad and joyful times.

How will she carry on?

She is strong, independent, loving and caring, and

So blessed to be surrounded by a loving family and friends,

For, without them the pain would be piercing.

Her life’s book has changed direction.

She has begun a new chapter in her life.

It will not have her anticipated fairytale ending.

This new path will be rocky and emotional,

But all the while energizing her spirit.

Of this, I am sure.

As her friend I can only hope that I can be

A good companion as she enters this new journey.

This is a road that is untraveled for each of us.

Together we will persevere.

Together we will endure.

Together we will struggle.

Together we will laugh.

Together we will travel as only friends can travel.