—For Sister Wendy Beckett

Tonight silence 
Finally claims you 
And eyes that marvelled 
At the beauty 
Of creation 
Are closed 
For the last time. 

You are veiled, 
Expectant, 
Crucifix and rosary 
Placed reverently 
Between fingers 
That once indicated 
Delicate brush strokes. 

Your lips too 
Are still, as if 
In acceptance 
And contentment, 
For you kept your vows 
Obediently but still 
Had your say. 

—Published previously on the poet’s Facebook page (26 December 2018); appears here with his permission.

Bio: David Subacchi