I sat here before looking west.
It is the same blue ocean
and white sand.
Your brother's play prints,
now two decades gone.
The gull feathers and shells
he piled so carefully,
long ago washed to sea.
The shore now lined with houses.
The beach a community backyard.
Here my tears matched the sea.
That day I saw
you dance on the waves.
Dress up doll
in my shoes and skirt,
preening for the camera.
Your smile of satisfaction
at being just so.
Tip toe twirling,
a full of life dance.
So my darling, ethereal child,
I could not,
that day, let you go.
I left you here and went away.
I have practiced
saying good-bye to you.
So I left a rose
on the granite marker of Vittorio.
He was just your age.
And one for Giuseppe and Paolo,
and with greater courage,
a special rose for Angelica,
your phantom playmate
and friend.
I shed their mother's tears.
Now, I am ready.
So, good-bye to the you
I left out there.
Rose petals and bon voyage.
You have waited
and today
you still dance the waves for me.
Same dress up,
same camera pleasing smile.
Patient child,
you knew I would grow stronger.
Now I am and can set us free.
The sunset behind you
will draw the curtain.
Your warm play
meant for me can end.
Now I can take
you home in my heart.
Your voice,
the waves, say to me:
"It'll be OK Mommy,
it's OK."
Good-bye, my daughter.
A rose for you.
Hello, my love.
Now we are one.