"Children Die Too"

My child has died.
Do not tell me it is for the best,
 or that all things happen for a reason.
My dreams and my future are buried with her.
This unthinkable, unspeakable tragedy has become my reality.
I will never be who I once was.
My child has died.
Do not attempt to comfort with mere mortal words or spiritual delights,
Nothing else matters now.
This bitter cold season I confront cannot heal
With a Band-Aid or a kiss.
So please do not try to take away the grief.
It is all that remains.
It is the only emotion I can feel.
And don't inquire of my condition. I cannot answer in shallow words.
My child has died.
But as the world continues in complete oblivion, please pause a moment.
Do not urge me to abandon her memory.
 Offer your kindness 
Speak to my soul with gentle words.
 Impart condolence with compassion filled eyes.
For her life was worthy of my pain- and your remembrance.
My child has died, but not in senseless vanity.
Allow her to bring you closer to those you love,
Discover through her existence how truly fragile life is.
Share with me her memory. Her name is Cheyenne. 
-- "Dear Cheyenne," 1996, Joanne Cacciatore