Grief Stricken

 

The church bell solemnly tolled,

as the body of Manuel was carried inside.

In that darkened chamber,

amidst flickering candles.

His coffin was opened for one last glimpse,

his peaceful face wrapped in white satin.

Family and friends dressed in black,

the priest in a black stole of mourning.

Maria supported by her mother,

looked sorrowfully on their departed brother.

Maria sobbed uncontrollably,

as she saw Manuel for the last time.

She held the side of the coffin

and could not be moved.

The time came for the final departure

and thence for internment.

Maria screamed in agony,

she held onto the coffin for all she was worth.

No one could move her,

her grip was steadfast as was her love.

The lid was placed on the coffin

and it began its procession out of the church.

Maria ran after after it, her words incoherent,

tears blinded her vision.

She was beyond grief, bereft of all emotions,

a nightmare had wrecked her life.

At the church door she wailed and let out a piercing yell,

'Manuel' please in God's name don't leave me.

Her life was suddenly empty,

as she fell into the arms of her mother.

A red rose fell from her hand,

unnoticed by anyone present.