his mother stands
for hours
tall
poised
steady
not even leaning
on the chair behind her

held by impossible strands of strength and grace

friends and strangers
line the aisles
hallways
vestibules
sidewalks
streets
quietly waiting
for their moment
beside the open box

some pass too quickly afraid to look

most
pause

with a smile or sigh
or sniffle or cry
at his proud shroud
a bold lettered hoodie
showing school spirit here

and hereafter

In memory of Graham Stevens, in celebration of his family’s faith, and in honor of his mother’s grace.