To Gert

by Sandy Rochelle

She walked about our lives

with the delicacy

of a petit fours

and left footprints

too big to fill;

She etched her way

into our lives

with the unconscious skill

of a Picasso;

Warm smile, gracious hands,

aproned dress—

she gave and yet left enough

for herself to store;

Her smile is remembered

and her voice is heard

in quiet persistence

whenever one confronts

gentleness, a shadow,

a sunset—

or love.

* * * * *

Sandy Rochelle is a poet-actress and filmmaker. Individual publications include: Moon Shadow Sanctuary Press/ Formidable Woman, Connecticut River Review, West Wind Review, Spirit in the Words, and Tuck Magazine. Her book of poetry, Soul Poems, was published by Finishing Line Press. Sandy is the recipient of the Autism Society of America's Literary Achievement Award. She has the honor of being named, New York State, ''Mother of the Year.'' Website:  http://sandyrochelle.com