Punching Out Cancer

 for Lisa

We all harbor a subdued fear

that it may show up in our lives.

You came out of your corner

not expecting this formidable foe.

You accepted the grim prognosis.

Considered it a challenge to conquer.

You put on the gloves

and prepared for the fight.

Your faith in God and self-confidence

was an invincible team. 

You kept pounding your enemy

until it gave in, gave up.

But you never gave up hope,

and now you are a champion!

© 2023 Richard Havenga

Photo Location:

TITLE Boxing Club - Grand Rapids, Michigan

The Weight

for Tom T.

The slow weight of these summer days

is not what you expected to carry.

Just as you retired, that

cruel "C" has invaded your space.

The dreams you realized, up in the U.P.,

have begun to materialize

in that remote cabin in the woods,

improved by your skilled hands.

The slow wait of chemo will interfere,

but will restore you, just like the new leaves

that regenerate and expand every spring;

you, too will emerge from this diagnosis

with a renewed mission to remodel

your cabin and resume your life,

when the bright light of hope

shines again through your trees.

© 2022 Richard Havenga

Photo Credits: Carol Theoret  ~ (near Munising, Michigan)