Closer In Memory

I come to the Garden alone and find
It's just as you said it would be.
Though, the snow has fallen a second time,
On the mound, underneath the tree.

He's here and I feel the sweet memories
Fill me up and, then, overflow;
To find such endearment, such peace and rest,
To hope and to dream, then to know!

We sang "In The Garden". You made me believe.
But, mother, when you went away,
I thought I could never sing it again.
There were words I just couldn't say.

But now, I laugh and I tease, just a bit.
Then, I come to this hallowed place
And He's here. In fancy, it seems
I can see your smiling face.

So, I come and He's here and I feel you so near.
I bow and His love fills, again.
I can remember, without any pain,
Even dream of what might have been.

All the ones you held dear, love you still, never fear.
And, as strange as it may seem,
You are closer today, Though, you've slipped away,
In my beautiful sweet memories.

© Joan Clifton Costner