Gardens of Stone

Under an azure sky laced with

A string of clouds I walk upon emerald fields

Dotted with rows of sun drenched marbles,

Gentle breezes waft in solitary trees

Amid the paths of breviary

Watched through the eyes of scarcely heard birds

Which mark the place where you sleep,

Names on a stone surround me

In every direction,

Their gaze seems to hold me captive

To a memory I never shared.



It is hard to believe that once you were living

That you loved as you were loved

And now you belong to the ages.

What ever happened to the promise

Of a young boy playing on the grass?



Do you remember the games of childhood

You used to play with such zest?

Do you remember your father's pride

When you took your first steps?

Do you remember those carefree days

When you won the love of a young girl?

Do you remember those years of hope and glory

As you embraced and kissed the colors of your devotion?

Do you remember those dark nights

While you stood vigil?

Do you remember that day

When you cried out for the safety of your mother's arms?



Do you know that those who once loved you

Still love the pain of your absence,

Do you know that your beloved's tears

Nourishes eyes that strive to remember your smiles,

Do you know what your child yearns

For in silent hopes,

Do you know how many dreams have wilted

Since you could not share them?



I would tell you all this and much more,

And that may you walk a higher ground

And may you hear a simple sound,

But I can only say these words

To a stone with your name,

Which marks the place

Where my sorrow finds grief,

Simply because once you lived

And in living left so much behind

Without fulfilling the promise

Which awaited the young boy playing in the grass.