On our way to see family for Christmas After a long and busy week, I know that Im too tired to drive, One more mile to the exit I seek I hear my tires cross the line I open my drowsy eyes, The back of a dump truck is all I see, I stifle my terrified cries. Metal crashed, the windshield shattered, But no one said a peep, I watched the accident unfold, The children were asleep. I call their names out, one by one, Starting with the one in the rear, Working up to the one whose voice I know Ill never hear. Melissa? She cries out with a healthy scream, Shes hurt, but shell be okay, Mark? Yeah. He pulls himself up In a casual, nonchalant way. I know shes gone, but I call her name, Maybe she survived, Theres no answer, I call again, Does she just need to be revived? I reach for her, but shes not there, Instead I feel the hood, I try again, but nothings there, Dear God, this isnt good. I try to turn my head to see, Something sharp is in the way, Drops of blood are falling Onto something that is gray. Some things I see, I cant make out, But some are very clear, Im alert and can communicate, And there are things I hear That tell me what I already know-- Bethany didnt survive. No one will confirm it when I ask, But the answer is in their eyes. I focus on the clear blue sky And hope that if I really try, Ill see the angels who attend, Or see her spirit as it ascends. Melissas back is broken Shes nearly paralyzed Marks two legs are broken Though hed sounded like he was fine. On Christmas Eve, were back at home, Short one family member Under the tree is a gift from her To me, and I remember I watched her tie aqua blue, lime green and orange ribbon on dark red wrapping paper. A homemade bow is more special than slapping on a ready-made bow. Right, Mommy? Yes, its more special, I replied. I take her picture from the shelf Hold it close, and cry. This is all thats left of her I shouldnt, but wonder, Why? Twelve days later, by her grave, Another clear blue sky, Balloons released drift heavenward, And I say my last good-bye. I post this to raise awareness of the effects of driving drowsy. I know our experience has caused people to be more cautious, as many have shared this with me. Time passes, and people forget. Remember, my friends. Remember.
Posted on: Wed, 17 Dec 2014 12:24:50 +0000
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