This prompt for solace hits a delicate note today. Today is the funeral of a dear friend and yesterday the passing of my husband’s aunt Mabel. I think how can I be a source of comfort for my friends and family. My tongue is not elegant, nor coated with wisdom. My part will be in hand holding and hugs, then serving and cleaning up the funeral meal to the hundred people expected. Later in the day, I will visit with in-laws. My comfort will come from and be shared in the exchange of quiet memories of a beautiful woman. I find solace in the last visit she had with the brother she raised since he was two. He suffers from Alzheimer's. I wondered if he even understood she was there. After she left, while I was with him, movement in the hallway made him call out her name. It brought me great comfort to realize the strength of love’s bond.
tears and laughter
in memories shared
our solace
_
autumn’s splendor
whisked gentle away
warm embrace
painted memories shared
over steaming cups of tea
