Coda
Jason Shinder
And now I know what most deeply
connects us
after that summer so many years ago,
and it isn't poetry, although it is poetry,
and it isn't illness, although we have that in common,
and it isn't gratitude for every moment,
even the terrifying ones, even the physical
pain,
though we are grateful, and it isn't even death,
though we are halfway through
it, or even the way you describe the magnificence
of being alive, catching a glimpse,
in the store window, of your blowing hair
and chapped lips,
though it is beautiful, it is; but it is
that you're my friend out here on the far reaches
of what humans can find out about each other
Today I celebrate my family: my parents who have devoted their lives to taking care of us and have the crucible like task of helping their daughter die, my brother who is there for every crisis and keeping us all connected, my sisters who are not likely to be all together again in this life, and especially my sister Danielle who has taught me how precious life is and that love is what matters most. Happy VD sis!
♥
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