I Knew
(A Love Song to Life)

All my life I have known
that death was coming,
in the sweetest moments,
in joy that surpassed thought.
I knew.

All my life I have known
that beauty was fleeting,
in the garden of Eden,
with Adam by my side.
I knew.

All my life I have known
that it is all ephemeral;
still something sings wildly
that is eternal, and I've heard it.
I knew.

All my life I have known
that you were somewhere,
hidden in flowers or grief
and I'd know you when I saw you.
I knew.

Anne Yohn
November 2000