Among the Graves

The sound of the gate swinging open
Was not a horrifying squeal
    As it had been for others
I was being welcomed to this
The restful garden of shining stones
    Shining with stonecutter's polish
Grass here is well-tended and green
Darker than Irish emeralds
    Under the shade of the trees
Breezes whisper across my cheek
Blowing a strand of hair into my face
    An unusually comforting, loving feeling
My ancestors welcome me
To their ancient, restful home
    Offering me what I seek
Despair is never allowed to pass
Through the hallowed iron gates
    Nothing is sad here

She wasn't an angel and she wasn't a devil
But she welcomed me here with a smile
    And the soft-spoken word, "Hello."
No sound could my dry throat summon
So I gave a thin smile and raised my hand
    She took my warm hand into her cool ones
And led me in, to a place in the shade
Safe from the heat of the uncaring sun
    Gently she brought me to the cool grass
Her slim fingers closed out sight
Her lips kissed the lids of my eyes
    The brushing of fingers and lips soothed my heart
"Lie your head, upon the cool grass
In the shade, safe from the sun."
    Her words were distant in my ear
"We know your desires, every one
And you are safe here, among families and friends
    Let your mind go, and leave your body
    Among the graves."

 

"Among the Graves" is Copyright © 1997 Jason A. Beineke and the Jabberwocky Studios
 
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