The Continuum of Poetry and Grief: Pushing the Needle

Pushing the needle, how far will you go? In the end, nobody knows. Like a highway, with no exit near, The tank runs low, yet I persevere.

On and on with the weight of the day, The worries, the struggles, won’t fade away. But then a hand reaches, steady and strong, A kindness that carries the weary along.

A heart so pure, a bond so true, A presence that lifts, sees the journey through. Through moments of doubt, through highs and lows, Companionship forms, and love still grows.

That gives a chance to refuel and go on, day by day and night by night. The moment at hand is sure a delight, Let’s hold on to that, for what we can do, because this, my friend, is very true.

Poem- Patricia Freudenberg

The Stride Toward the Finish Line

Life is a journey filled with unknowns, much like a road stretching beyond the horizon. Sometimes, it feels as though we are running on empty, with no clear exit or rest stop ahead. The worries of tomorrow can consume today’s energy, leaving us drained before we even take the next step.

But what if, instead of trying to outrun the unknown, we simply focused on the step in front of us? What if we took our goals—daily, monthly, yearly—and reminded ourselves that all we ever truly have is today?

There are moments when exhaustion sets in, and it feels like the weight of the world is too much to bear. Yet, just as one foot follows the other, just as a hand reaches out to steady another, there is always an opportunity to refuel. Small acts of kindness, support from a friend, or even a moment of reflection can serve as the fuel we need to keep moving forward.

Grief, like life, is not about rushing to the finish line. It is about finding the courage to continue—one step at a time. Each step matters. Each moment holds value. And when we walk together, lifting each other as we go, the road ahead feels just a little bit lighter.

So today, take a breath. Take a step. And push the needle forward, just a little bit more.

© 2025 Patricia Freudenberg, Certified End-of-Life Coach. All Rights Reserved.