Be aware, for within are hidden things
   quietly lurking in life’s dark ravines.
For as time swiftly rushes by,
    so to go memories most sacred.

For the demands and busyness of life
    distracts along our way.
So memories, too, quietly slumber,
    silenced by ever-pressing need.

For deep within are precious memories
    of those who walked with us so close.
Who were of kindred spirit,
    cheerfully sharing life so free.

Who, for a moment, journeyed with us,
    allowing a passing stranger
To be a companion on their dusty road,
    not caring of time or deed.

Who brought with them a warming smile,
    cheering and helping along life’s way.
Who lifted and supported for the best,
    by accepting with no question why.

Then, as quickly as they’d come, they silently departed,
    leaving memories oh so raw and yet so rich.
Now, to be a warm vision willingly brought,
    by a contemplating thought.

For within this moment of intrigue,
    these sacred moments come rushing back.
Awakening fond memories so grand,
    yet accompanied by sadness and grief.

Then, with the urgency of time, they again grow dim
    with little to no remembrance,
Until by another moment of intrigue
    they’re again brought from life’s dark ravines.

To again become to us so real,
    as they lived, smiled, and spoke.
For us to sense them as a living being who brings
    a tear and warms our heart.

Yet, as memories, they cannot stay,
    for life hurries on its way.
And as memories, they again fade away,
    into our dark ravines of life.

Now live, so each passing stranger
    will sense a peaceful bond.
And with a warming smile encourage,
    for shortly, we too will be but memories.

Memories that will grow dim,
    and in time, our memories, too, will slumber.
And be in life’s dark ravines,
    where hidden things are quietly lurking.  

     Tim Kirby
     January 1, 2021