For Shannon

A Poem for Shannon

How does one
ask an Angel
to return her wings
after she has
flirted with the stars
inhaled heaven
into her lungs
while standing
at its pearly gates
performing a poem
as if it were a prayer
making the Most High
shiver thunder
will holding a ten

we ask you
sweet poet
return your wings
to the Most High
let it be your voice
that soars instead
inhale our love
into your lungs
and remember
where the bread crumbs lay
follow them back
to the familiar faces
that wait for you
to awaken
and poetically
tell us how it felt
to soar
with wings

for some Angels
do their best work
here on Earth
while waiting
for Heaven
you are one
of those Angels
we ask you
to wait
and stay
with us

But that is us
Being selfish
Not wanting your tomorrows
To slip through these
Fingertips moist with tears
Even though we know
Angels return to earth
In the form
Of snowflakes

And just like snowflakes
There can only be one
YOU
So spread your wings
Let your voice soar
The thunder before the rain
Will be our reminder of you
Making the Most High shiver
While holding up a ten