It has been a while since my mom passed away and over five years since my dad’s last breath. But there are still many moments where my first thought is, “I need to let my parents know about this,” or something similar. And then I recall that I cannot do that. A floodgate of memories opens up right after, and they offer strength in their own way, a nearness to my parents through them that I can no longer have in person. I remember their love, their support, and their caring ways, and this helps me move on.

Memories

For Mom: MoMemories

MoMemories
Mom’s recipes, now bittersweet nostalgia.
I try my hand at them, a serious smile on my face,
But they never taste quite the same.
It’s the love and care she put in, I realize
That I can never replace.

And as I stand, with ingredients laid out,
I feel just a hint of her presence –
In the warmth of the stove,
And the clink of the spoons,
In flavors mingling with memories I love.

So though the dishes may never taste the same,
I carry her love in every attempt,
Honoring her with each imperfect bite,
And I remember with the spices that merrily clash,
the warmth of her smile, the touch of her hand.
~ Vidya @ ladyinreadwrites

And Dad: Memories Bring Back You!

Memories Bring Back You
In melodies that softly play,
I hear your laughter in the fray,
Your favorite song on the radio,
And the memories, they just flow.

Dad, I miss you, your wondrous ways,
In countless moments, on endless days.
Miss your warmth towards one and all
Your generous spirit and limitless heart.

And then I know, in my heart anew
One clear purpose, so strong and true
To cherish loved ones like you did
Make friends of strangers effortlessly.

For though I wish you’d reappear,
And others too, whom I hold dear,
I should strive to make memories new,
For didn’t the old memories bring back you?
~ Vidya @ ladyinreadwrites

Punam has us picking up the pieces for this week’s Poetics at dverse, and this is my attempt at addressing grief.