The Carrier by Valerie Parente
You have been given the greatest honor
when your loved one is visible no longer
and now you get to carry them with you
in everything that you do.
It will be challenging some days
but you will always find the strength
because wherever there is hurt
there was love there first.
There will be confusion but it always comes back
to this everlasting fact:
that loved ones remain forever within
so you never have to be alone again.
– Valerie Parente (5-16-2022)
Rose Buds by Valerie Parente
I collect rose buds
for the fun
and I feel immortal
like I am one
with the showcase
of my collection
that’s why I display
the things I love
infinite treasures
flow and flux
perpetual motifs
personification
they mirror me
like a reflection
objects with stories
never fully done.
It’s not hoarding
it’s admiration
for the symbols
in my vision.
– Valerie Parente (6-28-2021)
Promise by Valerie Parente
I know I will see you again
when I am no longer me
and you are no longer the you I knew
but we will be together
in an infinite room.
“I Meant What I Said When I Said We Will Be Together Again” by Valerie Parente
– Valerie Parente (9-15-2019)
Natural by Valerie Parente
I had no idea how much I cared
Until behaviors that I could not explain started kicking in
I started feeling without daydreaming
I started laughing without meaning
I started helping without intending
I started sacrificing without resenting
I do not force an emotion
But a natural force compels my mood
I do not intend to cry
But the tears begin to pool
I do not consciously try to think
But the sad thoughts venture through
I do not understand what is happening inside
I do not have a stance on what I cannot define
All I know is how much I care
With a new capacity I had no idea was there.
Now I realize that this feeling came from
Nature’s most beautiful miracle, called love.
– Valerie Parente (8-8-17)
valerieparente 