Farewells

Bitter March afternoon - by the banks of the river - high water
Scattering the ashes of a drinking buddy.
Grains and dust scattering in the wind to be carried downstream.
Is this, and the eulogies and memories of friends, all we leave behind?

A week later another leave taking - though less unsettling
A Buddhist colleague emigrating to Australia.
Friends leaving -some with their worldly possessions
Others empty-handed, taking just their experiences. Impermanence.

Days growing longer again offering the promise of spring.
Cleaning the balcony, planting seeds, making plans.
This harsh winter seems to have lasted far longer than a few months
Time to clean up - look outwards and move on