the moment you took your last breath
my hand over your heart
strangled
by the huge hand of Abitanga our Tongan caregiver pressing over mine
your eyes blankly searched the room
your big sister stood tall & strong on the right side of your body
lovingly walking you over the threshold

the October light dimmed
the room seemed to spark ~ grow quiet with an afternoon hush
they all came, loved ones who had crossed over
they came, as if summoned to a big party!
your bedroom was full

ancestors i’d only heard of in family stories and WWII tragedies
they were there, those who had been welcomed to dance laugh and cry
in the arms of our family’s generosity
they were there, welcomed in this liberating air

your face grew younger
freed from the oppression of a tired body
they all circled your bed preparing to escort you home
such lightness of being, liberation in the air

all those considerate loved ones who cared to come
bringing their wife, mother, sister, daughter, friend, cousin ~ home

surely angel food rounded the cake lady ~ frosting & sprinkles led her way . . .