Paean to My Grandmother

I remember little but her radiant smile

That broke on us, children that we were,

Yet felt a love that brightened all the sky

When we gathered by her bed to honour her.

There are ancient souls who come to earth to bless

And though but five, within I was aware

That she who radiated joy and light

On her bed of pain saw beauty everywhere.

I can recall her children's love as well

Who bore in their hearts a sorrow for her fate

And each the other helped to ease her ills

That by their care her agony might abate.

I recollect no cry broke from her lips,

And she all suffering with grace endured

And no complaint, no force or fate decried,

Her soul's ascent to heaven's realms assured.

I have lived these sixty years on earth

And ever shall her saintliness revere,

For children perceive more clearly the aureole

Shining when His chosen ones appear.

To Father Michael his brothers and sisters who, having left the bodily form, may yet attend my song.