The Avalanching Light

I reveled in this cooler, damper year
Until it brought death,
Arriving like an April avalanche
That rumbled into summer
Taking so many dear ones
Especially you,
Years of sickness prepared us
Still, we were astonished
At how exquisitely
You, perfect hunger artist,
Picked your time
Each day eating less and less
Less and less 
Until you stopped completely
Stopped and slipped away.

Now, you are gone
And all the others
I run my head
Against the heavy walls
That keep me in this world
I would go with you, gentle spirits,
My mind sees you waking on the other side
Smiling and laughing as you embrace
Your father, Tom,
Your mother, Lizzie,
Who died when you were only 10,
Your beloved brothers and sisters
And all the dears ones who preceded you
I would go with you there
But others depend on me
And I on themac
My feet sink into earth.

Still, I know some day
I will drop this wrinkled costume
Step softly
Into the avalanching light
And soar.