Last Rites

[velvetpage]

I wrote this for my friend, after a day she'd spent putting down one animal after another. It's behind a cut because it's about euthanasia.


Last Rites

This way through the gates, my friend.
I can see you are in pain.
I can't make you fly again.
You've sung the sunrise for the last time.
Sing the sunset now, at peace.
This way through the gates.


This way through the gates, my friend.
I can feel the pain you're in.
Torn fur, blood draining,
You've gamboled in fields for the last time.
Relax under my hand now, and rest.
This way through the gates.


This way through the gates, my friend.
Your suffering is clear.
Old bones, tired eyes,
You've comforted others for the last time.
Let me comfort you now, loyal friend.
This way through the gates.


This way through the gates, my friend.
No greater peace have I to give
Than this syringe. I wish
I could make you whole again,
But time, and life, and death
March on, inexorable, for us all.
So I will smooth your path.
I will take my place in this circle.
With a gentle touch,
And my tears for your ending,
I'll usher you through the gates.


-Erin Van Hiel

Comments

[labelleizzy.livejournal.com]

*eyes streaming*

thank you. Never seen anything quite like it.

[velvetpage.livejournal.com]

I'm glad it spoke to you.

[catsarah.livejournal.com]

That was really lovely Erin <3

[velvetpage.livejournal.com]

Thanks, Cats.

[kisekileia.livejournal.com]

It is lovely.

[velvetpage.livejournal.com]

Thank you.