Requiem for Mom (Lita 1931 - 2018)

Sonnet companion to my Unsung Heroes Part VI about my mom who overcame adversity from a very young age through hard work, faith, and the unwillingness to ever see herself as a victim.

You were only seven when you went blind,
But could see again in less than two years,
Two years later you were seeking to find,
Full time work to help your mom ease her fears.

Eight brothers and sisters home, and dad dead,
From fascists' caresses in dark, dank cells,
You rolled up your sleeves without tears or dread,
Worked full time packing fish and working wells.

At sixteen you left for a foreign shore,
Worked hard, learned to read, saved all that you could,
To pay mom’s passage and two brothers more,
Keeping a promise as you knew you would.

Of your son you were as proud as can be,
But one of your cells was worth ten of me.

Reviews

[Chris Shaw]

A fine tribute to your mom. Her inner strength and resilience in the face of adversity shines. Your final couplet, I found most moving. You honour her memory. I am enjoying reading your poetry.

Chris

[Victor D. Lopez]

I very much appreciate your feedback. Thank you. I lost both of my parents under difficult circumstances two years apart and miss them both every day.

[Chris Shaw]

I am sorry for your loss. My Dad died 32 years ago suddenly, my mother two years ago. I too miss them every day. The grief softens but the missing remains constant.

[Victor D. Lopez]

I am sorry for your loss as well. We are never so alone in the world no matter how many loving friends and family we may have as when we lose a parent or a mate. I know the pain of the former and fear nothing more than the possibility of the latter. I bid you peace.