memorial days

were this the last word
i hear from your lips
the last touch of your hand
the last smile
the last embrace

know this . . . 

i have wrapped
each word
each touch
each smile
each embrace

each moment of
all the moments 
of all the years 
in delicate layers of
sheer light

tucked gently 
into my pocket 
i carry them 
with reverence
for our holiness

~ pb 2012 ~