🌿THE EMPTY CHAIR

🪽🕊️A reflection on loss, memory, and the love that lingers long after presence fades.

My first time coming back__

standing in this room,

it feels so quiet, so bare.

Memories of you play in my

head;

your presence still

lingers in the air.

I see you in your favorite

chair,

a smile so bright,

self-conscious of your few

wisps of hair,

eyes so full of light,

asking about my life

with genuine interest and

care,

not centering on yourself,

little mention of your

personal nightmare.

As I sit across the room,

I watch with hope,

compassion,

not wanting to stare,

etching this moment into

memory,

not wanting to forget your

face

for when you are

no longer here.

Trying to understand

what possible lesson could

be learned in this—

why it feels so unfair.

I have so many questions,

answers I cannot bear

to hear.

Your eyes spoke with

willpower,

a gratitude that

was rare.

Dreaming of children’s

weddings,

your daughters—

a matching pair.

With walks down the aisle,

stunning dresses to wear,

a veil of laughter and

happiness

masking worry and fear.

Your days were numbered;

just how many was unclear.

Yet steadfast and clear

you made the most of every

moment

you were here.

To the universe,

your wishes were made

clear:

to prevail, to conquer, to

survive,

to be alive,

as the ending drew near.

In time, the balance slowly

shifted;

time began to dwindle,

not much left to spare.

The day arrived that left us

bare—

your battle was over,

fought hard, fought fair.

Final peace has come;

your ashes rest in

eternal care.

Love endures forever;

her heart’s light still fills the

air.

I still see you,

I still feel you__

echoes of you

in your empty chair.

🕊️For my sister, whose love whispers in every quiet room.

Happy Heavenly Birthday 🪽