FROM GIRL TO LADY...

FROM GIRL TO LADY...

I can hear your laughter and see your smile..

and see you tilt your head to one side

I watched your eyes light up 

as he entered the room 

and see that quick glance you shared.

What a couple you were

so happy in each other's company.

You always had such pride in your family

and delighted in all they did. 

Still, I remember you as a girl

with that lilting laugh 

and that easy warmth you happily shared.

You never pushed me aside

or told me to go away.

Rather you knelt with me 

as I looked for that piece of broken glass

in Nona's path, we called it a clock.

You helped me to pick fruit from the trees

and suck honey from nasturtiums

and even played tea parties with me,

though I was so small. 

You understood my love of words

and gave me my first ever dictionary

(I treasure it still) 

and a bluebird necklace.

We were more than cousins

we were friends and confidants..

You were my little big sister

always supportive, never judgemental

We laughed, we cried, 

we shared family news

and solved the problems of the world.

Thank you for your guidance

your caring and sharing

and for being the girl and the lady I so admired..

Rest in peace, sweet Stella..

you will live on forever in the hearts 

of all who knew and loved you..

We will hear your name and smile

'Of course, I knew her well!'

(c) Crissouli  March 8, 2016

Image free use courtesy The Old Design Shop