Memorial

Not a restful place for a service.
Just yards up from a crowded public beach
A group of mostly seniors, not dressed for swimming,
Meet to honor Sheila.

There is no designated spot, beyond “near the swings”,
Where twenty people gather
And listen to memories
Of closeness, love and the feeling of loss.

Turning, as I leave, to face the ocean
I am struck by the juxtaposition of children, bikinis,
Life guards. A vitality just 10 feet and one thought away
From Sheila’s memorial.

She chose the place,
Fully aware of the celebratory ambiance
That her friends and family would experience.
What a thoughtful way to say good-bye!