The Long Journey (Poetry)

For Dorothy (1925-2011)

I now think of you as landed — disembarked
on the Isle of Cats — your journey at an end
and comfort found in meeting once again
the warmth of love in greeting feline friends.

I’ve travelled through the word-map you have left —
your story of the years spent on this earth —
that odyssey condensed upon the page —
those ports of call named Grief and Hope and Mirth.

Faith your guide and Peace you destination
’though seas grew rough — skies dark and full of rain —
you steered your course — scarce faltering — you charted
the highs and lows of Happiness and Pain.

And now it’s done — the weary voyage is over —
at anchor in that harbour dreams have known
you’re free from all uncertainty and danger —
you’ve earned true bliss — the joy of getting Home.