The Shine Journal - The Light Left Behind

 

Hiding from the Memory

by

Lanette Kissel

A loved one’s struggle with cancer

can leave us deeply marred.

So that we become the walking wounded,

the defeated battle scarred.

Were there times when he went wanting,

or things that he would lack?

Was he aware of my loyal support,

that I constantly had his back?

Did I do enough?

Or perhaps did I do too much?

Did he feel the warmth and affection

coming through my loving touch?

From a cruel twist of fate,

it seemed we could not hide.

Did he know I also suffered,

though he was the one who died?

Where can I find that safe

and secure hiding place,

from all those painful memories

I can’t seem to erase,

from all the words left unsaid

that I just can’t seem to face?

###

Lanette Kissel resides in Evansville, IN with her Yorkie-Poo, Benjy. She has been writing Inspirational poetry, articles, and essays for twelve years. Her work has been published in small print journals, and in online periodicals.