What makes a life well-lived?
We see but the observable evidence
In the actions and words that the departed left behind.
Thus we judge accordingly.
The landscape of their inner life remains their private domain,
Albeit hinted at in the detritus that remains.
We make our surmise from these scattered sherds,
With knowledge that this reflects more our experience.
We hope that those who’ve gone did have these:
Joy and love and happiness and peace.
Let us grant them that as we lay them to rest
Using our memories of them for the healing of the world.