The Lilies of the Valley

To commemorate the American lives lost so far during the pandemic, especially the medical personnel and other first responders who sacrificed their lives to save others.

There is a valley hidden

among rolling hills where

thousands of white lilies

lie in deep repose.

They lie there waiting

for the springtime rain

to quench their thirst

to feel whole again.

Soon the gentle rains wash

over the fields of white

like tears of angels falling

into the night.

But when the snows of winter

bury them one by one,

they disappear into the ground

their work is done.

Until the next spring they

return proud and strong,

and a new life begins,

a new day a new dawn. 

Author's Note

I used the metaphor of a lily because of their look of purity and ability to come back after a long winter. They are beautiful and resilient like the souls who were victims of the corona virus.

Reviews

[Einstein Noodle]

beautiful Dara! i love the resurrection theme .. i am standing on the higher level of the valley and looking down at that vast expanse of white lilies .. just beautiful and sad at their wilt .. so sad ... wonderful tribute ... those who died related to Covid 19 or our Nation as a whole ... your closing says it all to me
"...proud and strong,
and a new life begins,
a new day a new dawn. "
Nice work Dara! thank you for sharing .. i am moved for sure.
E.

[Dara]

So good to see you my friend! This year has aged us all more than we care to admit, the loss of life simply devastating. However, I also believe those that leave us are in a better place. The pain and suffering replaced by peace and contentment. The rest of us who are left behind must insure they didn’t die in vain. I hope you always stay safe my friend. There are better days ahead! :-)

[Einstein Noodle]

yes there are .. and today is one of them ;).......

[Cherrie Palmer]

What a beautiful creation i loved it

[Dara]

Thank you so much Cherrie. The circle of life is inevitable and while it can takes its toll on our emotions is also beautiful. Take care!

[Coyote Poetry]

A wonderful poem shared dear Dara. We have the wildflowers and the dandelions fields in Michigan. The days of Winter make the days of Spring. So wonderful. Thank you for sharing the outstanding poetry. I did enjoy this one.
Coyote

[Dara]

Your review definitely made my day. The loss of life due to the pandemic is indescribable. I don’t think we can ever pay tribute enough to them all especially the first responders who risked their lives. I hope you and your family stay safe and healthy during these trying times.

[Coyote Poetry]

You too dear friend. We have a long Winter. Try to have some fun and be safe.

[Dara]

Thank you! I hope you do as well.

[Betty Hermelee]

Very visual poem Dara. I love lilies and I like how you come full circle, from their re-birth to their demise during different seasons of the year; the cycle of life, well described with your word choice, flow and rhyme. Really nice!! Fondly, Betty

[Dara]

There is almost something ethereal about lilies. Often present during funerals and memorial services they seem to symbolize the hope of eternal life. Thank you so much for your warm words and insight. Be safe!

[Betty Hermelee]

Thank you Dara, you too!

[Unspoken poet]

So very true, this is wonderful. You have talent.

[Dara]

Thank you so much. Great to see you here!

[jacob erin-cilberto]

this is a stunning tribute...so many of those emergency workers, doctors etc. died helping other flowers survive in that valley...and their memory stands high upon the mountain tops of reverence.
j.

[Dara]

Thank you so much Jacob. It is sometimes hard to come up with just the right way to express our feelings of helplessness and grief in the face of tragedy of this magnitude. Poetry has always been my go to when I otherwise feel a loss for words. I so appreciate you sharing your thoughts with me!