Hey Mama, Where Are You Now?

 

For Annalisa Rodriguez (May 29, 1972 – August 23, 2020)

 

My friend, you left last night,

felt the light calling you home

to where you are free to dance and

move beyond those long-time companions:

pain, worry, anger, regret.

Last night you left them all behind.

 

Hey Mama, where are you now that

you no longer stand upon feet of clay?

Do you ride the waves, gentle mermaid,

waves of wind, breath of Spirit?

Your body can now become foam

on the waves of your beloved Yemaya.

 

Hey Mama, where are you now that

you no longer have to carry those

burdens you longed to release,

surrender to the god

of your understanding?

You’ve finally let go of everything…

 

And now…

 

I hear your laughter on the wind.

See you dance upon the waves and

shine in the night. Mama, you’re still

the life of the party, the brightest star.

I no longer wonder where you are.

You’re right here.

 

©2020 Joanne Young Elliott

 

My friend Annalisa left us last week. She had been ill a very long time, but she never let it stop her from living and finding joy. She leaves behind a son. If you feel so inclined, please donate to her Go Fund Me campaign to help with expenses. Thank you. https://gf.me/u/ytvhkp