Recently, I lost a friend my age (48) to cancer, and as I was reflecting upon the family and friends that I have lost over the years, I was reminded of the times that I was or was not able to be present in their pain. I realize I did the best I could in each moment; however, I believe that it depended on where I was in my life at the time of their death. Today, I am able to hold a space of love for those who have passed on and for those who remain. And, I am grateful for those in my life who have shown me that love is being present in pain.
Can you be present in my pain
when I get quiet and shut down
and I choose to reflect
on the light and the sound?
Can you be present in my pain
when I have no words to say
and I need time to listen
and find my own way?
Can you be present in my pain
when I want to lay my head
and let go of what's going on
and what has been said?
Can you be present in my pain
when I cry out in despair
for what I thought I did wrong
and seemed not to care?
Can you be present in my pain
when I toss and turn about
and I am filled with anguish,
sadness, guilt and doubt?
Can you be present in my pain
when I know not where to turn
and I am about to lose all
and crash and burn?
Can you be present in my pain
when I want to scream and yell
and question about heaven
and wonder about hell?
Can you be present in my pain
when I take time to be alone
and need to clear my head
and work through my tone.
Can you be present in my pain
when I reflect upon the past?
Can you hold me oh so tight
and remind me it won't last?
Can you be present in my pain
when I am ready to move on?
Can you love me for who I am
and together build a bond.
Based on love, respect and trust,
forgiveness, truth and more.
Reach out take my hand
and together we will soar.