prepare the bells to peal,
the drums to beat,
set out your mourning weeds.
stand the guard,
set the candles,
prepare the end to meet.
steep memories
like flower blooming tea
to soothe the ache of loss.
set the table,
stop the clocks,
cover all the mirrors.
remember the dead
for the life they lived,
the person they were,
and the love they give.
