Death in Stages - Acceptance

*third in a series of three for Shem Rider (Thorne the Red)
 

Now you are the one among the stars.
Kicking up dust  
and chasing comets.
All those nights we spent talking
staring into the heavens,
I never once thought
you would beat me there.
I have felt your warmth
and seen you red and fiery,
a celestial streak across the sky.
Not resting in peace,  
but adventuring.
Truly free!  
I look up at the night  
full of friendly stars
and I feel you.
Hear your voice
telling me you will never be gone.
Watching over your love
and baby girl,
with a twinkle for the rest
who know the pain
of your absence.
Reminding us to be courageous,
accepting,
to love with abandon
and find happiness.  
We are all the better
for knowing you.
You will always be missed,
though never far.
Carried forever in our hearts
and seen in every shooting star.