Road Side Memorial

Flowers on the side of the road, 
Next to a cross and stuffed dolls, 
Mortality marked like a tombstone
Caused by accident, carelessness, or nature, 
Who brings the flowers by the same time every year?
The victim's family, the responsible party, or both?
Reminders of lost love or friendship clear my thoughts,
Like thousands, I drive by, with a glance of reverence,
We mark our space as a reminder that time is fleeting and not promised,
Curious kids on road trips ask about and point to your memorial,
The rest of us hope we never have one,
For ourselves or for others,
To those to tend to these flowers on the side of the road,
Peace be still.