I'm Still Strong

This was a year of discord and divide.
We faced the challenges of our increasing age.
This was, for me, a year of sad reflection
with a heart heavy with grief and rage.
After two years I learned how to walk alone,
wondering why I should take another breath.
I sit and watch the fire's dancing flames
while I look for reasons lying on the hearth.

I think of the joy we shared at Stefanie's wedding.
I look forward to more laughter with family and friends.
I know there will be another rainbow
when the coming Spring showers end.
I can smile as the cardinals and bluebirds jostle
for seeds from the feeder and then fly away.
I can still dream of contentment and peace
as the pink sunrise announces the new day.

So this became a year, for me, of triumphant belief,
when I was able to decide to go on
through the dark burden of my loss.
In the face of lonliness and discord,
I am still strong.