As I rest I picture you,

grandmother,

your courageous beauty, unaltered smile.

you held me as your love caressed my soul,

Grandmother.

2009 you were diagnosed,

stage 3 leukemia. piece by piece it broke your soul,

deteriorating your health. 

I lay by you, grandmother.

10 years old and unaware of your condition.

December 1 you succumb,

my last day to see you, my last hug,

my last smile, my last everything.

Grandmother, 

my promises to you remain kept,

my love unhindered, my faith everlasting.

until next time,

Grandmother.