GRIFFITHS (NEE CLAPTON), Shirley Anne Marie

Passed away peacefully one year ago, today…

Trams retrace their now familiar steps along North Terrace – a witness, to the strangest of times. You would not believe the ways in which the world has changed, but – then again, given a lifelong intuitive ability I would imagine (as in life) you would rarely be surprised.

I recall an observation you once made (from the time Dad lost his Mum) – that something at the house had changed, despite everything having (visually) remained the same. The warmth that had always lived there (even in absence), was somehow gone – I know what you mean!

Mum, you were more than welcome to every one of my remaining days – I would have willingly given them to you. I know you would have made so much more of them.

With my words again of little consolation, I will instead (on this your first anniversary) borrow those once penned by Leo Marks (words you could proudly recite, at any given time throughout your life); made famous in service by another strong woman, Violette Szabo (whose story you also admired) as testament to a life well lived, in service (as in sacrifice) for the betterment of those around you.

Thank you for everything you continue to do for me – at times, despite myself. I love you…

Sean xo

“We miss you, Mum.”

Love…

Dukie and Jack!

xx

The life that I have

Is all that I have

And the life that I have

Is yours.

The love that I have

Of the life that I have

Is yours and yours and yours.

A sleep I shall have

A rest I shall have

Yet death will be but a pause.

For the peace of my years

In the long green grass

Will be yours and yours and yours.