Many have values which are set in stone

Others have work-arounds, theirs alone

And then accuse others of insensitivity

When in fact, it is theirs - for all to see



Commemorating death is not at all an answer

Celebrating birth is the true honor mastered 

For when we pay homage to one we respect

It should be done with loving thought annexed



And this comes from respecting days of birth

Not from remembering the last part - a dirge

For when that's over, it is truly best forgotten

As then, we must go on with life full of cotton



Wound around us in clothes and blankets comfy

Which warm and protect us from past roads bumpy

And look forward to the good and wonder of life

Remembering only beauty shared without strife



Dwelling on sad things which left us so very sore

Colors perspective and so we miss so much more

Celebrate the good which others were in the past

And put aside the hurt and pain, so it doesn't last ...



- Tristram



(c) Christopher W. Thomas

9am Sunday, April 26th, 1998