Choices, Chances and Changes

Words can be uttered and hinged to describe you – of what you are

Others see you in a different way – on how you are

Some may outline you through their own lenses – just who you are

And a number can recount you in your meetings – from where you have been.

If you ask me on how I paint you – sketch you from the very start

Honestly, it has taken me awhile to find the exact words to draw you

Playing back memories through my mind is easy and uncomplicated – they’re my stories to tell

And that summing-up those moments are the bond that shaped and made us.

The portrayal of you likens to a gemstone – precious and elegant

A diamond – solid and structured yet there’s that transparency of your emotions, affections and spirit

Diamonds may have the highest hardness than any natural form – yet you cut and polish those you have met somehow made them whole

And in its rarest designs diamonds are a paragon – like the essence of you.

There’s no wonder why you glisten even in darkness and lightens the path

Your stability became our strength – a force that kept us steady and made us convalescent

Your compassion defines you – of what you stand for, of who you are and what you are

And in your fragility no matter what – you continue to glimmer for us to see a glint of light so we could shine.

Your sparkle is a design of hope and courage for us to aspire

Because of you the ideas became the blueprints of our vision and our archetype

You have created a foundation of true values, integrity and passion – an epitome of altruism

As we uproot and divide into different plains and places – you will find the testament of your design

The map of your legacy will continue to linger and ripple – it’s your masterpiece, your gift and your pride.

Helen, my mentor, my special friend and my safe. Thank you for making me who I am and who I can be. Happy Retirement 🤗

June 2019 revised Dec 2021