Facing Life

Another report of a super storm
thousands left homeless
many died -

an emergency
for Red Cross and volunteers
to lend a helping hand.

After the storm ghosts linger
wandering aimlessly
death came too soon
their souls not ready to depart

Gradually the debris gets cleared
a new life must begin
restructured and redefined
missing loved ones and precious things
filling the gaps with small acts, 

surviving in the face of no evidence
that life will ever be normal again. 

Prayer helps and falling in love again
is a boost, a baby born 
with all the promise of life
and little by little routines

becomes familiar
and the tragedy 
only a faded dream. 

Prayers for survivors in the Philippines,
Midwest and Italy.