I Had Forgotten

We all know people who drain us,
literally taking the energy we have
into their black hole of self
and leaving us with emptiness
and a need to retreat.

I had forgotten
that when people come
to a viewing and a funeral,
they come to offer
their comfort and strength.
I had forgotten
how selfless and kind
the giving, sorrowful heart
can be.

I found my strength increasing
as each person told me
they were sorry...
as each person held me close.

I am quite sure
that the closer one is to the painful loss,
the more they can receive
from the comfort and love of others.

I watched my sister
her husband, and children,
gather strength to their souls
as all of their mourners
poured the sweet oil of their presence
and their gracious uncertainty
into the wounded emptiness
of their lives.

I had forgotten
that sorrowful strength
is better than joyful strength
when one's heart is broken.

I had forgotten.