A Tribute to Lucy, My Friend

Day lilies were Lucy’s signature plant ~ this yellow color is one of the first she shared with me

*I lost a treasure this week.  My ninety-six year old best friend went to heaven last Saturday.

When I met Lucy several years ago, it started as me thinking that I would spend time with an elderly widowed neighbor; instead, she instantly became one of the dearest friends I have ever had.  She was confidant, mentor, gardening instructor and friend.

Lucy taught me that a person is not determined by age; the real person is on the inside and that doesn’t change by growing old.

I already miss her, but am very happy for her.  She is finally home with her loving husband of over fifty years, her only child and beloved daughter, and all her other family and friends.  Most importantly, she is in the arms of her Savior, whom she both loved and served faithfully. 

This poem is written as a tribute to her. 

Lucy, My Friend

Why did you have to be
So perfect and so sweet,
Those many years ago
When at first, our hearts did meet?

 I knew that at your age
Your years left could be few.
That losing you would hurt;
Was risky, befriending you.

 But I could not resist
Your love, it drew me in;
Your gentle ways, they beckoned,
And calmed my fears within.

 We shared countless visits,
Sipping cups of brewed tea;
Swapping many a tale,
Quietly, reminiscing.

 More often times than not,
Our stories made us cry,
But we’d end up with a laugh
Before we bid goodbye.

 And no matter the day,
No matter what the storm,
Your door, it stayed open;
Your friendship, always warm.

 Yet, not only was your home
A welcome mat for friends;
The flowers in your yard,
Caused your blessings to extend.

 Your gift of gardening,
Of sharing what you grew,
Has left a part of you
With everyone you knew.

 With every passing spring
Or summer’s warmth anew
Each day lily that blooms
Reminds us all of you.

 Though we will miss you so,
Hope springs like violets blue.
For in heaven things won’t fade,
But will be forever new.

 One day we will join you,
Up there on streets of gold,
And Him whose face you’ve seen,
Our eyes will too behold.

 Together, we’ll rejoice,
Of pain and sorrows free,
We’ll dance ‘mid rows of roses
You’ve grown for us to see.

 How you lived while on earth
Only God did measure,
But what you left in our hearts
Is a priceless treasure.

 Tho’ losing you brought tears,
I have a joy un-end;
Knowing while down here below,
You chose to call me friend.

Sue Nash/2014

This English dogwood plant will always be special, because I tried transplanting one from Lucy several times before this one finally made it

For more of my poetry, see Poetry Corner

 

 

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