Introduction

The act of scattering ashes is a deeply personal and symbolic gesture that represents the final farewell to a loved one. The poem “Where Did I Go – I’m in My Element” reflects on the journey of our loved ones after they have passed, inviting us to ponder their presence in nature and the lasting connection we share with them. It is a beautiful reminder that their essence remains with us, enriching our lives and the world around us.

The Poem

“Do you ever look up and wonder, where did I go
Do I drift with the clouds in the sky
Or should I dance with the birds in wild murmuration
Do their wings form my image as they fly

Did I rush down the head-race and into the stream
Am I caught in cold current flow
Or shall I drift in a pool in warm saturation
Where my essence feeds the reeds as they grow

Or can I be felt in the ground that you walk on
Am I where ashes haphazardly lie
Or should I hide in the ground at your chosen location
And enrich the soil with my life

You know; you saw; those curtains did close
And when I go, that moment brings sorrow
Should I see this as my last contribution
To the cycle of life that we follow

But there is no need to search; I float all around you
I lived in your life from my start
Perhaps you could see this as just a migration
I’m in my element, and I live in your heart”

Reflection

This poem uses vivid imagery to explore the various ways in which the essence of our loved ones may continue to exist in nature. Whether they are part of the clouds, the birds, the water, or the earth, their presence is felt in the world around us. It offers comfort by suggesting that even in death, they contribute to the cycle of life and remain close to our hearts.

Use in Memorial Services

“Where Did I Go – I’m in My Element” is a touching addition to any memorial service, offering solace and a sense of continuity. Its gentle and reflective tone makes it suitable for readings, eulogies, or printed programs. It can help mourners find peace in the thought that their loved ones’ essence is ever-present and that their final journey is one of transformation and ongoing connection.

Scattering ashes is a profound act of letting go and celebrating the life of a loved one. This poem provides a comforting perspective on this process, reminding us that our loved ones’ essence lives on in the natural world and within our hearts. It is a beautiful tribute to those we have lost and a source of comfort for those who remai