author's note
This book is for those who have suffered a loss, whether from a breakup, a divorce, or the death of a loved one. It is not a self-help book, a legal book, or even a practical book. This is an emotional book about an emotional subject—losing someone you deeply love. The feelings of loss are universal. Yet, they are, at the same time, unique to each of us.
Some poems will speak to you more than others, and some will not be relatable at all. Many poems originally appeared in the book We Are No Longer a Couple, by Gary Browe, published in 1992. These poems were about a romantic breakup and comprise most of this book. Numerous poems have been added, removed, and modified from the original manuscript. Additionally, the collection now includes a small number of poems that cover the topic of the death of a loved one.
The poems are written in free verse, song lyrics, or just words on a page. Several of the poems were used in musical compositions, and these are noted in the footnotes.
Coping with loss is a messy process. I am not a trained therapist; this book is not a substitute for a therapist, doctor, or trusted friend. These poems may also trigger painful memories of your loss. Please, if you are not okay or have any thoughts of harming yourself or others, seek professional help.
Some people enjoy listening to sad songs. If you are one of these people, you will find solace here.
HEALING
No one
knows your hurt.
Your pain
is unique.
Mend your heart in your own time.
Don’t give in
to those
who say:
“You should be better by now.”
The path you choose is your own.
But say to yourself now:
“I am healing.”
Take a bath.
Find a quiet place.
Reflect.
Relive the good times, but remember
those times are past.
Others will follow.
I have learned today that I am responsible
for my own life.
I control.
I steer.
I shape.
Like a sculptor with weathered hands
into an image that is uniquely mine.
My mind is a Wild Yard
filled with unnecessary fears,
and the treasures
below the surface
are obtainable
only if I have the courage to uncover them.
I alone
can transform this Wild Yard
into a place of great beauty.
To work the land and set new goals,
knowing that if uncultivated,
I will never discover my potential.
The intimate you, I knew
so completely
so deeply
is
almost a dream now,
long ago.
A slice of life sectioned for inspection,
picked apart and scrutinized
like a captured butterfly,
it lost its wonder when it lost its life.
Now.
Now is the time to trust your feelings.
They are your best guide.
For every quest you make
and for every step you take
there is a new
horizon.