Inspiration

My poem Waiting for Someone Who Never Comes is about my family’s first holiday gathering after my brother’s suicide.

I kept finding myself drifting to the window that overlooks my mom’s driveway, peering out, listening. It took me a while to realize that the restlessness I felt was the sensation of waiting. I was waiting for my brother to arrive.

There are two empty seats at our holiday table because of suicide. There are countless other families who face the same sorrow every year.

I created this collection to hold space for those who are grieving deeply. So often it feels like we are asked to hide our heartbreak and our sorrow for the comfort of others. I wanted to offer this collection for those who find solace in seeing grief acknowledged openly. You are not alone. 💙

Waiting for Someone Who Never Comes

by Karen Cralli

Frost on the windowpanes
Cold, endless dark of winter

I await your arrival
Where are you, brother?

The sorrow of your empty seat
Your absence at the table

I grieve you every time I remember:
Waiting for someone who never comes