Mom Poem by Daleen Enslinstrydom

When the shadows of life corner me
I find myself in the same spot in the yard every time
looking at the setting sun
and I drink up the inviting warm colours
into my cold heart.

I am reminded of you
and when tears fall like seasonal rain
I know that I can cling to memories of you.

The wind blows colourful leaves from the trees
and a deep sorrow is left in me
and like the falling leaves
you did also fall
before the coming winter of life

and my heart yearns for you.

When I close my eyes
I can still hear your laughter
and mother, you did live emotionally.

In the late afternoon I smell the gardenia
and it reminds me of your perfume
but the marble flask is empty
and all that do remain are my memories.

I try to remember your face
but it’s in vain
like rose petals
that is blown away in the wind

but your essence still remains
in my heart.

With a gardenia blossom in my hand
I smell your perfume
and mom, you will always be in my heart.