As I See Premature Deaths

A neighbor woman I knew —

who was younger than me

died of aggressive cancer

a few months ago.

She left behind

two small kids,

the age of my children.

I see her widower

lost and struggling.

Her grieving mother —

swallowing her own pain

is helping raise the children.

I visited their house

soon after the death.

They are coping, trying to be brave,

because we helpless humans

have no other choice —

no matter how monstrous the tragedy!

While cancer can happen

even if we’re vigilant,

I must say: a lot of cases

are tied to lifestyle issues.

We are not paying attention

to the body’s signals,

and we’re exposing it

to endless chemicals —

day and night,

crossing the tipping point.

I keep raising awareness,

but I get lukewarm responses.

Temptation and ignorance wins,

premature death destroys families,

cherubs become orphans.

Note: Will we take health information seriously?