The Maze

by Tesse Akpeki

This poem is dedicated to all the siblings who have lost their brother or sister through tragic road traffic incidents. I am still at the stage of accepting my brother, Tony’s death, and the pain is still so very raw.

Through the RoadPeace siblings’ support group, we can comfort and support each other to come to terms with not being able to say goodbye and to keep living with the pain of love lost.

This safe place and space is somewhere I find understanding and care. It is also a caring environment where I feel I can share my love as well, in spite of the pain I feel.

I find it hard to sit with pain
with the detours what can I gain
I wretch, I sob, I cry, I scream,
I go to bed and hope it’s a dream
I wake up and see it’s real
one step at a time
as losses build
I hope and pray I can get through
nothing compares with losing you!
I am thankful for comforters and for love
I embrace blessings from above
as I heal and get restored
your kindness and warmth
bridge the gap
and ensure I’m still on life’s map
love, embrace and compassion – the balm and the wrap
to live with grief and loss
the reality of you not being here
emptiness. Numbness and pain – the tragic cost.

If you are interested in attending the siblings’ group, please email the RoadPeace helpline at helpline@roadpeace.org.

Updated on: 30 November 2023