It is strange, unfamiliar territory — weird, even.
A slow, topsy-turvy readjustment to life.
Ten days after my mum passed away, I wrote her a poem.
I later read it at her funeral.
The poem flowed from my heartbreak, my love, faith, and the quiet strength I remember from my mum’s life.
It is rooted in a phrase mum often added at the end of speaking with us:
Whenever we asked mum if she was going to do something or go somewhere, she would look you in the eye, respond and add:
“All being well.”
Today, I felt called to share this poem in honour of mum, my unfolding healing journey, and for anyone grieving or struggling through loss.
I know that many caregivers find themselves in this same quiet space after their journey ends, wondering how to move forward.
In my local bereavement support group, we share our stories of how everyday routines seem empty and meaningless and how we get anxious and even feel guilty at “finally having time for ourselves, to breathe and think. ”
Grief is a mixed bag
If you find yourself here, too, please know you are not alone.
I invite you to find a comfortable seat, have a warm drink and allow the love from my poem to my mum, now shared with you, to soften and brighten your day. Thank you.
I know, all is well
I know, all is wellI know, dear Mum, the angels are singing,“Abide with Me”, “Come Jesus, Come”, “The Lord’s My Shepherd”,as you stand with the Circle of Elders, guiding us from afar.I know, dear mother,You gave your best,your very best,to see us grow to walk the world with pride and our heads held high.I know…Your work here in this lifetime is complete.Your mission.Your vision for a better life for the family is secured and locked in our hearts.Mumma, my world is splintered, my heart in pieces,yet I know the sun will rise, shine, and melt away my tears,soften and expand my heart,help me breathe through another day, and support others along the way.I know time stood still when we saw you lying on your bed.Clean.Tidy.Just as you like things to be.Prayers recited.Last rites given.Energy preparing to leave the room.I know, dear Mumma, you are in our hearts.Your spirit walks with us,You breathe with and for us.Your Angel of Love surrounds us, keeping us safe, warm, and protected.And I know, dear Mumma of mine, we will get through this, whatever that means.We’ll stand at the crossroads of life,heads held high, feet rooted to the earth.Our hearts connected forevermore.Thank you, dear Mumma. I love you.And as you say,“See you in the morning. All being well.”Ntathu Allen16th June 2025
A gentle gift for grieving caregivers
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