My Mum

Stella Rose, my mother, and one of my very best friends, left for Angel Land on Monday, Dec 1, just  over three weeks short of her 83rd birthday.

I am going to miss you a lot, Mum...all the wonderful phone conversations...all the silliness...and your gentle but deep insights into people and into life itself.  You are going to be a terrific angel, though, I suspect, one of the more mischievous angels.  Heaven is a beautiful place.  It is also wonderful fun.

"There's a better home awaiting,
In the sky Lord, in the sky."

Originally published Dec. 3, 2008.

My Brother

My brother died last week.  He led a hard life and had been sick for a long time.  I shed tears at his passing, and I send forth smiles at the knowledge that has woken up in a better world.  One day we shall meet again, Michael.  Little brother, I have written this poem for you.

My Brother's Journey

Life's journey is a mystery,
Winding path to heaven's love.
Our lives are each a story
Which ends far up above.

My brother's path led downwards,
Down to years of pain.
His steps were merely shuffles.
The road  was dark with rain.

Yet deep within his spirit,
His fire was carefully kept.
His love, his passion, glowing,
His brilliance merely slept.

Today his eyes do sparkle,
His mind is filled with fun.
He walks that world where all shall go,
The paths of angel-land.

    Patrick Alan Rose,  Nov 25, 2008

Originally published Nov. 25, 2008.