For the client who is grieving the loss of a parent

Of course your thoughts are foggy and unclear
as you wait in this middle space
from life to death

Of course this pain pricks and pries open past griefs
that you thought were behind
only to realize those griefs were distracted

Of course you want to avoid this sadness and anxiety
that feels like a boulder sitting upon your hurting chest
If only you could escape it for an hour or a day
and return when it’s over

Of course you see desolation all-around
loud and overwhelming
choking all rest and peace

Listen.
What is Grief saying?
Close your eyes and breathe deep

What comes to mind’s view?
A stream unfolds, surrounded by lush grass
rocks at bank’s edge

Take a seat at stream’s edge
to be alone amidst the quiet
the calm
the peace

This place is consolation in the midst of grief
A hope nod, a space that you can imagine and practice anytime
Your inner stream
this place of smoothed rocks and verdant meadow

Your interior sanctuary.

BJP