INTRODUCTION
I have long contemplated incorporating a homophone into a poem. A homophone, like “pair,” a pair of shoes; “pare,” to pare an apple; and “pear,” the fruit; consists of words that sound alike yet carry different meanings and stories.
I wrote this poem in mid-January, but it was not until last Thursday that I realized it could evoke emotions vastly different from my original intent. For many, it might bring to mind the heartache of losing someone or something precious.
For me, it captures my journey through breast cancer—a journey that spans nearly 11 years.
Each stanza is a step along this path, reflecting my experiences. It begins with the raw acknowledgment of loss, then gracefully shifts to a celebration of life, beauty, and the freedom to embrace the moment. Ultimately, it leads to a place of serenity and purpose—a testament to resilience and hope in the face of adversity.
