Ten years ago we lost Hatch’s search partner Piper. I remember how, in her last days, she’d gaze across the swale where I still feel her presence.
Midnight in the Garden of Rebirth
for Piper (February 1998-March 2011)
Earth’s Ferris wheel gone berserk – tremors
across the Rim of Fire deep in rock under ocean,
tsunami’s crazy arc full-swing over-sweeping
the TV screen. That night I dreamed of you
flying the higher tiers of our house – skimming
ceiling, bedroom to hall, maybe headed
for the dog-yard door, guiding on your sense
of escape from what tried to contain you. Life’s
losses: your stride; gazing across the swale
you used to run. Spirit’s dream of resurrection.
That day, ten years ago – remembered
for disaster across ocean; the day I remember
for losing you to sky. Then, driving your
body home, I squinted to see rain-clouds shot
through by one lucent ray. Last night
it rained again to green your grave. Walking
the swale, I’m grateful for your sign, your flight.
~ Taylor Graham
