How do you find the words
To say “Good-bye" to someone you love?
To say "Good-bye" to someone who has shaped your very being
Someone who cared for you as an infant
Disciplined you as a toddler
Cared for you as a child
Advised you as a preteen
Motivated you as a teen
And commended you as a young adult
How do you say "Good-bye" as you watch them suffer
Struggle to even breathe
When you have seen them persevere through so much more?
How do you say "Good-bye"
To a paragon of courage, strength, and steadfast endurance?
How do you tell your grandmother "Good-bye?"
As I sit here contemplating the words
I realize that we have been saying them all along
Every visit to her house
Every task she assigned
Every conversation between us
We exchanged gratitude, love, pride
"Thank you”
“I love you”
“I’m proud of you”
I’ve shown nothing but love
A lot of words have been said
But have I truly said "Good-bye?“
"Peace, be still”
The Lord’s words to the sea
Echo tonight for this woman’s resolve
Good-bye, Mama
May you rest in perfect peace