rededication

Grandmother,

How I've missed

the simple talks we'd have

About the meaning of words

And the glistening of fire

you told me once, but

I forgot, forgive me.

Grandfather,

How I've missed

watching your strong arms,

Hands grasping about tools,

and the making of the fire

you taught me once,

but I forgot, forgive me.

I shared a kiss,

of fire, not of passion.

Fire meant for the head,

and spread it did, around and throughout,

across a summer, bright and fertile,

But I forgot, forgive me.

I hold myself responsible

for words my grandmother entrusted me,

for deeds my grandfather tutored me,

for promises devised from a kiss

on lips which since have flown.

They were forsaken.

They were forsaken.

And my suffering has multiplied,

But in it I have REMEMBERED

The Protector of the Truth. I remember,

I remember and rededicate myself

to that lofty cause.

My heart, my light, my mind.

I have returned grandmother, grandfather,
as your champion.