I am settling into this life alone,
comfortable in the silence,
finding solace... in the solitude.

I do spend time in memories —
of time spent with you,
with you and the boys,
with you and our families —
your mom and dad,
the Captain of the ship,
and my mother and Santo,
Uncle Al and Aunt Stella,
gathered around the Seder table.

The photographs transport me...
but even without them,
I often feel your presence
next to me —
when driving down familiar roads.

It’s only when I turn my head...
that I realize
you aren't beside me.

No, don’t worry...
Yes, there are tears in my eyes...
but my lips form a smile
at the sweetness of our memories.

I am settling into this life alone,
comfortable in the silence,
finding solace...
in the solitude.