My sister makes me frown

she smiles away even when she’s down

A Mother’s ache for a child gone

a light is out that once shone

she carries on her day to day life

being sister, daughter, mother, wife

My hear aches for Danielle but even so

I see her eyes as the sadness will never go

I can only just bear the unending pain

of never seeing her daughter again

I pray for her hurting soul

the family unit will never be whole

An empty room..an empty future

just as she was young and mature

She aches for others no matter the cost

but she aches for the child she lost

As Christmas day comes close by

she’ll smile on the outside..at least she’ll try

As I stand hopelessly by her side

I admire her strength..a sister’s pride.

* written the 2^nd Christmas after my niece Danielle’s death.....I am very proud of Stephanie’s ongoing witness and grace..