Sad Anniversary

Bernice Chandler (expecting Alison) and (l. to r.) Cathy, Bobbie and Debby

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Today, July 10, 2014, marks the third anniversary of my mother's death. It is also her birthday. She would have turned 84 today.

One of the saddest things one has to do when a loved one dies is gather up their earthly belongings.

Below is a short but poignant poem by Judith Kroll, "Your Clothes", that expresses the heartache of what Emily Dickinson called "the solmnest of industries".

Your Clothes

 

Of course they are empty shells, without hope of animation.

Of course they are artifacts.

Even if my sister and I should wear some,

or if we give others away,

they will always be your clothes without you,

as we will always be your daughters without you.

By Judith Kroll, Source: Poetry (March 2000).

Rest in peace, Mommy.

Love, Cathy