Candles

The family rallied round, as families do

Cows were milked, you were clothed and fed.

But who will light your birthday candles?

 

Cousins live nearby, aunts and uncles do what they can.

They take you to friends parties to celebrate

A day that is special just for them;

Your birthday is shared.

 

One year passes, three years, five,

Ice forms over the deep pit of sorrow.

But the ice is thin, a small thing could crack it.

It might melt in the warmth of a candle