Although my eyes can’t see you, I feel your gaze.

Although I can’t touch your hand, I feel your guidance. Although I can’t give you a hug, I feel your embrace.

Although I can’t hear your voice, I feel your praises.

Although I can’t touch your lips, I feel their kiss.

Although your body is gone, I feel your spirit. Although I miss you intensely, I feel you near me.

Although your Journey has just begun, I feel that you “rest in peace.” Although I have said my goodbyes, I feel you will never be gone.

I wrote this outside in my garden after my mom died.

Even if you’re not a gardener, nature has a way of soothing the soul. Communication only takes silence. Emotions are absorbed when we allow Mother Nature to cocoon us, wrap us in her natural, organic world.

Planting a memory garden is a way of remembering those who are no longer with us with an observance of life. They give us what we miss most, something tactile, something to touch, smell, and brush against.

These gardens need only be as grand as a container or a potted herb on the windowsill.

My mom loved roses and it seemed fitting to plant some of her favorites. Even after 15 years, their aroma still conjures her presence. Getting up and picking buds for bouquets, and/or bud vases before the dew has lifted, is a ritual in which I never feel alone.

When my dad passed away, I built a berm and created a bonsai garden. This is where I placed a collection of mudmen he collected over the years (which started with one I gave him for Father’s Day in the late 60’s).

The clean, uncluttered spot reflects his yang energy and when I work or sit there I feel it around me like an embrace.

Life is a cycle and gardens demonstrate this to us better than anywhere. As flowers wither and disappear, their dead vegetation becomes compost, nourishing their seeds, which have dropped below. Leaves die with a brilliant flare as if celebrating their “fall”. On earth they continue to be nourishers and protectors.

Tip: Whatever your grief, find a spot with nature and sit there whenever you are overwhelmed; and when your eyes are clear just stare around you. Keep this ritual up through out the four seasons and it will help to bring you peace.

Superstition: It is said cyclamen blossoms can help remove grief of the heart.

Questions or comments: Contact me at whalebonestudio@embarqmail.com.