Here is the last place

left on the map

after Andrea Gibson, 8/13/75 - 7/14/25

Here is the last place left on the map--
a line to remember, a reminder
we have to be where we are
even when being where we are
isn't what we would have chosen.

Here is the last place left on the map
even when the map feels unreadable, 
ripped in all the wrong places, faded
topo lines blurred, leaving the route
more left to chance than easy to prepare for.

Here is the last place left on the map--
here, in the hazy late afternoon heat
world on fire, but dahlias blooming anyway
as sweet peas drip from the trellis & determined
sunflowers insist on reaching skyward.

Here is the last place left on the map,
the map of a life well lived, a life 
that tells the truth even in passing
a life shining light on the path
leading deep into the heart of love.

Here is the last place left on the map, 
angels of the get-through 
reminding you that living
from the best parts of yourself
is the way toward trusting 

the last place left on the map.