I remember...

I remember family reunions at Pismo Beach

     with salt water colder than ice

     and sand--oh that sand--

     so warm being buried was a delight.

I remember being happy not so long ago, 

      but it feels like a distant memory

      and I struggle to imagine

      happiness as part of my story. 

I remember my mother how she left

      so abruptly

      how I got to say goodbye and my glad tears 

      falling softly.

I remember every time I am with a friend

      sharing memories and laughing

      inside jokes, mishaps, and road trips

      even daily life happenings. 

I remember my children, more precious than gold,

      treasures on the worst of days

      giving me love that never gets old.

Memories warm and long ago,

making me cry and laugh,

beyond the price of gold.