CAROLYN BROCKINGTON IS DEAD

My friend is dead
He killed her
He will not miss her
He will not care
Save his own torment
Save his own guilt
And fear of retribution

It is I who will mourn her
It is I who will watch
Her children, husband,
Her sister in despair
It is I who remembers
The sweep of her hand
The fast, busy feet
The giving heart
Quiet presence saying:
“I am here.”

Now, we all go on
Wholly forgiving
Because our Sovereign requires it
We play out this drama of death
And of living on for awhile
His error is like Cain’s
Too heavy to bear
We must offer this man a hand
He should take it.

Earthene Fleming
August 8, 1990

Note: Carolyn was killed in police chase. The robber ran into her car and killed her instantly.