The Healing Journey

September 7, 2023

In a 2017 interview with Family Friend Poems, John P. Read said poetry helped him grieve the loss of his wife: “I found that writing down my thoughts and feelings and sharing with others helped me a great deal with my grieving….My message to others in a similar situation is not to grieve alone. Do as I did, write down how you are feeling through poetry … Poetry has helped me so much. It’s a great release sharing one’s memories and emotions. The best thing about writing poetry is knowing someone can relate to how you are feeling.”

My Soulmate

By John P. Read

I still say ‘I Love You,’
But now there’s no reply.
I always feel your presence
As if you never left my side.

I remember your comforting voice.
Now there’s not a sound.
Only echoes from the past
Follow me around.

You’re always by my side,
But I can’t hold your hand.
The reason why God took you
I find hard to understand.

Summer days seem much shorter.
Dark nights just linger on.
Dreams turn into nightmares
When the one you love has gone.

But real love never fades.
It still burns like the sun.
Although they’re far away,
Those memories go on and on.

Her spirit will never die.
It shines like the stars.
I know you’re sleeping in Heaven,
But you’re living in my heart.

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