Poets are known to say the words that others cannot. When dealing with a difficult situation, such as death, you can bet that there is a category of poems speaking of the same feelings and emotions. Poems about grief are not only therapeutic, but they also offer a variety of perspectives that may help you understand the situation better.
3 Poems About Loss That You Need to Read
Whether you are looking for a new outlook or wanting to feel less alone, we have provided 3 of our favourite poems about death that you can find and read online. If you are looking for some poetry that will give you a new perspective on death, read through these summaries and find a poem that resonates with you.
Poem #1: She is Gone by David Harkins
This is an exceptional poem about grief and addresses the sadness that consumes those left behind. When a loved one passes away, it can be so easy to lose oneself in the grief and hurt we are feeling, we forget to celebrate our loved one’s life and all that they achieved. If you are looking for a poem that is uplifting and positive, Harkins captures the typical thoughts and behaviour of mourners and channels a new take that will assist the healing process.
You can shed tears that she is gone
Or you can smile because she has lived
You can close your eyes and pray that she will come back
Or you can open your eyes and see all that she has left
Your heart can be empty because you can’t see her
Or you can be full of the love that you shared
You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday
Or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday
You can remember her and only that she is gone
Or you can cherish her memory and let it live on
You can cry and close your mind, be empty and turn your back
Or you can do what she would want: smile, open your eyes, love and go on.
Now Read When to Go Back to Work After a Loss
Poem #2: When I’m Gone by Lyman Hancock
This poem is especially comforting if you have had to watch a loved one suffer through sickness or fight for their lives in a hospital bed. Death after suffering often leaves a bitter feeling and impure memories of the once healthy and lively person. ‘When I’m Gone’ is a poem that speaks of memory after death and how one should forget all the memories of a loved one that is not their best. This poem is sure to have you reminiscing all the good times you shared together and undoubtedly bring a smile to your face.
When I come to the end of my journey
And I travel my last weary mile
Just forget if you can, that I ever frowned
And remember only the smile
Forget unkind words I have spoken
Remember some good I have done
Forget that I ever had heartache
And remember I’ve had loads of fun
Forget that I’ve stumbled and blundered
And sometimes fell by the way
Remember I have fought some hard battles
And won, ere the close of the day
Then forget to grieve for my going
I would not have you sad for a day
But in summer just gather some flowers
And remember the place where I lay
And come in the shade of evening
When the sun paints the sky in the west
Stand for a few moments beside me
And remember only my best
Poem #3: Do Not Stand at My Grave and Weep by Mary Elizabeth Frye
This uplifting poem is one of our ultimate favourites, simply because of the positive perspective and comfort of the words. The poem speaks of how our lost loved ones do not lie underground for eternity, rather the poet lists all the places you will find your loved one; in the stars, the wind and snow. By linking lost loved ones to universal elements, Frye is giving those on earth a sense of comfort that our loved ones live on once they have left us.
Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there; I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond glints on snow,
I am the sun on ripened grain,
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning’s hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry,
I am not there; I did not die.
Remember Your Loved One with a Loving Ashes Decorative Piece
Reading and writing poetry are both healthy and productive ways to express your feelings towards losing a loved one. If you are searching for a decorative piece that will remind you of you lost loved one, Loving Ashes can customize a glass orb as a stunning tribute for your home or office. Call us today and let us know how we can help you create a decorative piece that captures your loved one’s memory perfectly.
