Scars and Stars

(In memory of Nicky, Karen, Sally, Pat and Cathy who left behind young children)

I am reminded

each day I wake,

that scars like stars

in a jet black sky

have their own

special brand of beauty.

I did not die,

they are proof that I survived,

grew strong.

It is my duty to recall

the fall of my sisters in pink,

reflect and think,

there but for God's grace.

My place here,

near friends and family,

all whom remain dear to me.

Yet never far from my mind

there are times 

when shadows of my friends

blend into my thoughts

and whisper gently to me

of life's uncertainty.

Reviews

[jacob erin-cilberto]

Those left behind....are both thankful and sad. We are left to mourn the friends we have lost. I have done that enough times in my life...it is so hard. Life is uncertain as your poem says...and I know today could be it, any day...so i try to live the fullest for them...those friends I have lost over the years...Paula, Carl, Junior, Liz, Jane and Sue...all gone much too early in their lives, and mine.
thank you for this poem Chris...i remember today, and always.

j.

[Chris Shaw]

Many thanks Jacob. When I am having an off day, I think of them and it spurs me on. They all would have done anything to have survived. We do have to make the most of our time, because uncertainty lurks round every corner. Thank you for mentioning your friends along with mine. We remember them all today, with much fondness.

Chris

[Amberlight]

. . . great title - I like when there is that kind of symmetry.I support all the sisters in pink in their struggles

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you Amberlight for your visit. You are most welcome. I appreciate your comments.

Chris

[Lydia Shutter]

The friends we thought would grow old with us and left us all too soon. While their memories are a blessing, we miss them with our hearts and souls. So often I wish I could pick up the phone to call one of them. I want to share with them a tidbit that would make them smile. Alas, it is not possible. However, I smile alone remembering them. What a beautifully emotional write this is, Chris. Lydi**

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you so much Lydi**. Sadly I have lost many friends prematurely and I do miss them so. Yes it is the little things you are no longer able to share with them. However I have lovely memories and I give thanks for that.

Chris

[sette]

i like the poem scars deeply symbolize survival of the pains in life making a person more tenacious and stronger

[Chris Shaw]

Hello sette thank you for your visit. It's good to see you. They do say you grow stronger at the breaks. All good wishes.

Chris

[Stella Armour]

thank goodness you keep them alive Chris, for their legacy lives on in those left behind.
To leave young children seems such a cruel way of the world and must make us question why ?

[Chris Shaw]

Devastating loss for those young families Stella. Have witnessed the aftermath. I will always remember my friends who didn't make it. Thank you.

Chris

[Dr. YumnaKay]

I tend to think that uncertainties are what keeps life going and are what makes life 'life'. Although of course the thought of leaving behind young children is terrible to think of :x
You have such a nice way of observing and wording situations like these, Christine. x

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you so much Dr Y. Uncertainties can be both a blessing and a pain. I always appreciate your thoughts.

Chris

[Einstein Noodle]

men love their scars especially Christine ;) many a tall tale connected to every one ... little to large .. i use to tell my kids they were from knife fights when i lived in the islands. (what islands did not matter)
scars and stars ...yes!! i am taking that with me my friend...if you don't mind ;) and the proof of survival as well ... such strong metaphors and so positive an attitude ... and yet those same scars and those stars do remind us also of those gone over before us ... just a beautiful blend my friend! well done says i .. written in a comfortable story telling way ... its the honesty that shines through
E.

[Chris Shaw]

A real treat today Mr E. A second visit from you and while I am online as well. That is certainly pleasing. Men have always been happy about their scars methinks. Women not so, but I have learned that those scars are all about survival and living. We have to be proud of them and regard them with beauty. A tribute here to my lost friends. They are the stars. So happy you called today :)

Chris

[Einstein Noodle]

yes they are ...a tribute indeed .. and your perspective is one i would not enjoy had i not read this one ... really glad i did not miss it!

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you my friend :)

[HB Rita]

We lose our dearest one and always look back to recall them cause they were a part of our life someday; even today. They are like a ‘STAR’ in our memory like a ‘SCARES’ never goes away! I lovecthe metaphor you used incthis poem to show your mourning grief to the friends or family!
It is sad but true! Thanks for a beautiful poem.

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you for a beautiful response HB Rita. Most appreciated and I am thankful.

Chris

[HB Rita]

Feel better dear

[Hayley]

This poem reminds me of a book I read recently: "The Scar." One of the minor characters in the book, in conversation with a major character who had just undergone some serious surgery, mentioned that he should not be ashamed of his scars, because they represent healing and the process of being made (or remade, I guess) whole again.

[Chris Shaw]

Dear Hayley. Thank you for your review and for sharing. I appreciate your visit.

Chris

[Robert Trakofler]

Oh yes you have that problem too good to know I’m not the only one who gets scolded by specters not to forget to appreciate life:) scars are beautiful dear Chris but little can compare to your golden heart despite survivors remorse it shines on for those of whom you have lost and they wouldn’t have it any other way!!!! Lovely words here

[Chris Shaw]

Smiling at you Bunny, yes sometimes that survivor's guilt can just give you a pinch. Thank you for your understanding and your lovely response.

Chris