Farewell to His Mother

by Keith Burton


Though burdened with the cross,
Jesus stopped to say farewell
To his mother.

“For nine months I was you,
One body, one breath, two souls,
You were the tree that fed my tender vine.

The road I walk does not end today,
But stops where time forgets to breathe.

This pinch of pain is salt
Which stings yet cleans the wound.

And, so it is with you.

Every tear you shed
Will heal an injured heart,
Which left alone
Would crack like brittle leaves.

The crown you wear is earned
Each single day.

Continue life
Although your child has died.”


Although I’m American, I spent two memorable years in English boarding school. Their emphasis on literature became a foundation for writing songs which allowed me to perform all over the States. I love the saints of all religions and was honored to meet Mother Theresa, and the Dalai Lama.