New Dug Grave

I left home when I was twenty
Just to see what I could find
With a promise made to Mother
To return at Christmas time.

But when the new year turned to summer
I was running rough and wild
Haunted by my broken promise
And her tender, trusting smile.

Sick at heart I started homeward
Still it took a year and more
Till I saw the garden flowers
Leading to my mother's door.

Brother, sister standing silent
Turning as I call their names
On the ground, familiar shadows
Pointing to a new dug grave...