During
the long hot days,
stone-faced angels stand guard
over their monuments until
sunset.
They watch
as the mourners
walk slowly through the rows
and leave offerings against thick
headstones.
They hear
the whispered prayers,
the last goodbyes, and sobs
of loss as loved ones bid farewell
in tears.
They stand
as witnesses,
unable to respond
to the burden bestowed on them
each day.
At dusk,
with the living
departed, they gather
and mourn in silence for the dead
they guard.