Dirge

I suppose we never really

see a thing

until it’s done.

The scrutiny

of yesterday

through the 20/20

of backwashed tears.

But could we?

Could we

see it coming

before a bell rings out

our sons & daughters

died today?

Before we are

wearing red to remember.

Before they are

beautiful & lost

at fourteen forever.

© 2014 Jennifer Wagner

Of course many know about the tragedy at Marysville-Pilchuck High School on October 24.  We live about 30 minutes away and some of my family live in Marysville, so this hits really close to home.  My fourteen-year-old son’s football team wear MP stickers with 10.24.14 on their helmets and students have been wearing red and white (MP High School colors) in support for this grieving community.  So sad, so tragic, so young.  Prayers for them for healing and light…

Hunting Season

The leaves in silent fire

are mellowing,

a cool, crisp blaze

before the frost—

the last cracKle, pOp

before Old Man Winter

grays us with his beard.

We watch

as orange and white

petals of autumn suns

l           i           n          g                      e                                  r

like paper lanterns,

and then

the current

rolls them on—

I snuggle in

close beside you,

sip roasted dandelion tea

dripped with honey in the cup,

and on my tongue—

hoping you

track the scent

and catch me

mid-fall.

© 2014 Jennifer Wagner

Poets United: The Poetry Pantry

Judgment

I was

one thing

to you only.

One thing.

How could I bear

the weight of

all you could

never see of me?

© 2014 Jennifer Wagner