Grief Is

Grief is the lover who gives
    And gives
    And gives
    And waits
    And does not receive
    And dies of starvation.

Grief is why the widow —
    Who once slept peaceful
    In her lover's arms;
    Who once had dreams
    Instead of memories;
    Who once caressed
    Her lover's cheek and lips,
    Lost in cosmic wonder —
Cannot eat more than
A spoonful of soup.

Grief is
Going home without,
And never again
Going out with home.