The Cloud Veil

...for Cherie Sumner

A cloud-wisp moving swiftly overhead
Unnoticed by the doleful, groundswell crowd
Throws passing shadow on that final bed
Then slips beyond the (darkling) gathered clouds.
The quarrel of those footfalls on wet grass
Is dulled in sheepish (waterlogged) regret
With sorrow ~ finding comfort at the last ~
closed over by the lasting earth. And yet!
A sunburst catches dark clouds by surprise
As you (unkempt on greeting) caught my arm
In memory’s meadow ~ laughter never dies
Though earth reclaim your laugh, your grace, your charm.
The cloud-veil drapes across your face again
A faint impression left in smiling pain.