Life doesn’t stop for death.
It is only halted for a moment.
Death makes a mockery of life
while life continues—
strong, unwavering,
like a runaway train—
while those left behind
pick up the pieces.

Life doesn’t stop for death.
Morning dawns,
a brand-new day.
There is much to be done
and bills to pay.
There is nothing
more to say.
I am the last one standing—
persistent, enduring—
while life remains demanding.

Editor: Erynn Crittenden