I received this small but powerful book of poetry as a gift from a lifelong friend after the death of my mother. My friend wanted to express more than what was available in a sympathy card and felt that this poet could bring me comfort, would speak to my soul. I have only now been able to read it, on the anniversary of my mother's birthday. I thought I would look for the message my friend had intended and found an evening of peace and forgiveness in the very heart of the natural world, the beginning of life's bounty.

In "Flare" I read: "May they sleep well. May they soften." I can allow my mother to leave without rage. I understand the need to let go of those that we have loved. And I can release my mother from worldly burdens, or any obligation for my own choices:

"But I will not give them the kiss of complicity.
I will not give them responsibility for my life."

In "Gravel", I found my own thought spoken:

"This is the poem of goodbye.
And this is the poem of I don't know."