The Journey Done - To Mary Helen

The lilacs in their swelling buds prepare

The scented gift of spring, a perfumed air,

As cherries burst in pink and pastel glow

Remembering how softly you would go

Through the garden of our fragrant paradise.

Not sadness but a poignant dream of days

Recalling again those ever-luminous eyes

That on the smallest flower cast their grace

And loveliness of smile, the envious sun

No brighter than your soul among the stars,

Soaring to reach Her feet, the journey done,

A leap to joy above all earthly bars.

Recalling the beauty of your gentle soul

The dreadful price you paid to reach the goal

So many scarcely try and sleeping miss

The Mother's touch, the Lord's compassionate kiss.