For Sam

As sun sets
We nurture the embers
Cherish their warmth while we have it
Fill our lungs with memories
Knit kernels of recollection

We remember the glow
Brighter and more clear in the fond image we will invoke
Than the perception of our eyes in this moment

Dim in the light of dawn,
Cradled in cupped hands
We strain harder to see them, warm and precious.
Folding fingers around them,
A shield from wind and forgetfulness,
We pull them close.
We keep them warm
And sift them gently in with our own.

Here they will linger,
Whisper instinct to what was once our better judgement.
We bite our lip,
Man the bellows.
The embers stir bright within us.
Those who know our hearts take notice.
Pausing, they cast a second glance
Shake their heads in wonder
And swear for just that moment
We seem so much like the ones we’ve lost.