In Extremis Poem by Dr. Charles A Stone

in the cemetery of hope
there are crosses scattered among trees
and children waiting beneath the surface
for their chance on earth

there are crosses scattered among trees
where adults have come to rest
after prolonged illnesses, accidents, war

and children waiting beneath the surface
lost in incipient dreams, telling stories
wondering when it will be time

for their chance on earth
their chance to scratch at calendars
and learn of life in extremis