To Cheryl With Love

"Cheryl's dead," I heard someone speak one night.
Shocked awake from a deep sleep, I opened my eyes.
Of course no one was there.
Angels talk to those who listen and care
like a whispering breeze touching the cheek.

I mentioned it to my son in the morning.
We both considered it a possible warning,
but whom should we tell such terrible news?
We kept the secret of our negative views.
As long as there's life, hope's aborning.

No longer in need of hairbrush and comb,
the road ahead's waiting, you're free to roam,
dear Cheryl, far beyond our physical touch.
For years we have loved you (some very much).
We now say 'Bon voyage!' God says, "Welcome home."