Watermarks of Joy

There is a mourning superimposed on watermarks of joy. Such is the normal human response to a loved one's release from Alzheimer's diseased effects.  I do not hesitate to admit that I already miss Poppi and anticipate the pang of family gatherings without him. My bocce compadre/adversary has been taken from me, but I cannot succumb to the hurt of absence without remembering the last time we played and how I had to remind him every turn of the rules of the game he knew so well. Looking down this week upon his shrinking frame I did not want him to go, yet silently prayed he would.  And now he has, and I appeal to Heaven that the peace that is his will soften the ragged corners of our grief.