Poem: Nokomis

Nokomis

I’m sifting through ashes early;
July is on the horizon and I
will miss you again

I can’t blame death
when you taught me
that it doesn’t really exist

I see your spirit too
every time I dare to glance
at my aging eyes

I notice your hair
is growing underneath mine
like crimped crow feathers

I hear your voice
when I speak on things
the Creator whispers to me

Nokomis, can you see me?
I’m here still, hanging on,
alive and dreaming


Note: “Nokomis” means “my grandmother” in Ojibwemowin, Anishinaabemowin. This is an old poem, written June 23, 2017. My grandma passed away 21 years ago today & I still miss her.