An Elegy

By Erin O’Keefe

An Elegy

by fourth year Erin O’Keefe

Can I love thee as the dove loves morning? 

When the darkness fades away

And a new day is forming 

So supple, like clay–

The Lord’s hands shape my way.

Can I love thee as the child loves his mother? 

He clings to her chest

And is soon nourished; together 

They peacefully rest

A sweet son against her breast. 

Can I love thee as the pine loves snow?

A fresh blanket of white, 

Her powder falls softly. I know

The tree enjoys a touch so light

Amidst the wintery air of night. 

The dove flies away, 

The child weans soon, 

The snow melts when May

Overtakes December’s moon.

But I know love prevails still,

and combats Death’s will.

-In loving memory of Patricia Dolores O’Keefe, may she rest in God’s presence forever.