So seize her body, famished earth, and grind
a meager feast from hide and hollow bones.
Your partner time has stilled her. Still you'll find
too little meat remains to nourish stones.
She has already spent her valued parts
and multiplied her substance, shedding verve
and hot vitality to kindred hearts
she cherished and she sacrificed to serve.
You cannot claim the pieces we possess
which Jennie ceded freely, without care
to purchase health or private happiness.
She gave complete and saved too scant a share.
But now she stays with us to whom she gave.
You don't encase her wealth in vacant grave.
December 2007