Rose

You were among the most beautiful of women,

Yet toiled as though you were a man.

For few men could match your industriousness

In an age when women merely followed the norms



More than a grandmother you were to me.

Your great sense of time was my guide.

The values you cherished became a pool

From which I drew inspiration.



Did you not teach me the value of peace?

For I saw you do your best to have peace

With others; some of whom

Were apparently of lesser status than you.



If death were a little fairer to all

I could have tapped more into

Your reservoir of wisdom.

Perhaps, I would have been a better man.



But I am not laying a complaint

Because I remain grateful for the privilege,

Brief and fading as those lovely nights were

Your imprint on my mind has been enduring.