Grieving Dictionary

Grief...
Is this large lump inside my throat
Which try as i may, I cannot swallow

Resignation...
I dont know what this means and I dont care
Wait! I think that's what it means - no longer caring

Disappointment...
Is this bitter taste I have n my mouth
Which not even the sweetest honey could get out

Suicidal...
Is one negative feeling I dont have and I'm glad
Why should I die and the problem remain?

Numb...
After shedding gallons of tears, i have no more to cry
My pain for pain is exhausted & I feel... nothing!

Hope...
That elusive feeling everyone tells me will come
It seems I've been waiting forever, will it ever come?

Peace...
I stopped waiting for hope and started looking for silver linings
I have counted my blessings and am amazingly serene

Healing...
They say time is the greatest healer
As the days go by, the pain subsides, slowly

Strength...
Is returning to me, unhurriedly, but certainly
And I am finding that I am stronger than I ever thought

Reason...
I keep finding motivation to fight harder
I will fight, win and come out stronger. It's worth it

Zest...
My hunger and enthusiasm for life sluggishly returns
My 'joie de vivre' as the French call it

Closure...
Today, I remembered and didnt shed a tear
I even managed a wistful smile - I have arrived

(c) Nana Oye Odame