For Margaret Harrison

It is too late for miracles
my friend.
You wear your years like silver lace
your hair white as ermine.
ninety three years
lean toward resurrection,
and I do not begrudge
you that journey.

But I, too,
move toward death.
Yes, I am young
but more than half your age.
I am growing familiar with tumors
and aching flesh.
My soul years are tidied up
and finished like drying hay.
I am also ready
for resurrection.

So, let us leave God in peace.
I promise I will not beg for your longevity
if you will stop hounding heaven for mine.
We have no need for miracles.

From A Hermit Holds My Heart
Ellen Porter
Benetvision

Note: Sr. Margaret died June 16, 2008 at age 96.
Ellen died, two months later, August 21st, at age 60.