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In the days following
The memorial service,
My air was heavy,
Days took their time passing by
Some even seem to
Come and go without notification.
(Me not realizing)
And I’d end up a day behind.
My vulnerability exposed
For all to see.
Ripe pickings for vultures
And other predators.
But my guardian angel
Wasn’t having it.
A lone white dove perched itself
Upon the third floor balcony
Of my building.
Keeping a daily vigil
As I came and went
Throughout my days.
I was so moved by this,
I was looking forward
To seeing him every time
I went outside.
He briefly visited a neighbor
And was witnessed by a good friend.
I took pictures to keep him
With me for remembrance
And to pass down to his grandchildren.
I eventually saw him fly off
Into the sky and that was the last
I’d seen him.
He was satisfied I guess
To see that I would be okay,
But I will always miss him.
©8/6/21 by Juanita J. Smalls
Revised 9/17/21
