Such a treasure
this small piece of paradise
hidden in the forest
high above the valley
peaceful with the gentle
sound of small waves lapping
the shores of blue-grey serpentine

Surely it's time
to find a different name
one that's less fraught
with racist history
perhaps what native peoples
called it while they still
lived here in peace

Today we scattered ashes
of our sweet friend Carolyn
lost to us a year ago
though doctors tried to save her life
cancer had the last word
except for those we heard just now
spoken by her grieving husband
Daniel whose loving tribute
this time carried the day

The ashes sank from sight
the many-colored flowers we threw
floated on the surface
blown along by the breeze
afterwards Daniel
took off his clothes
as I did mine
braving the lake's October chill
we felt our bodies quickened
our spirits lifted by the cold

Back at the car we said goodbyes
I thought yes every day
one more goodbye
goodbye dear Carolyn
and thank you
for your many gifts
your loving presence
gracious spirit
and for reminding us how precious
these brief moments of our life
while we're still here
to share with friends
and loved ones
the exquisite beauty
of this mountain lake