These four couplets unfold like stepping stones — small pauses across the quiet waters of loss. Each one holds a moment of recognition, a shift in understanding, a breath before the next step. Paired with Leonard Cohen’s “Teachers,” the poem traces the lessons we never received, and the ones we learn only by walking toward them
Life’s Missing Teacher
I never found a teacher,
who taught me how to grieve.
The unforeseen creature
was difficult to perceive.
After unplugging her extension cord,
time was always near.
While wandering toward
the edge of life’s weathered pier.
.
Ivor Steven © May 3rd 2026
Ivor.Plumber/Poet 
So well done, Ivor. I just knew when you posted that fist line in a comment it was destined for greatness!
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And of course no can teach us how to grieve, and the poem traces the lessons we never received, and the ones we learn only by walking toward them … 🥰💕🤗
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This is so true, my friend. Grief affects all of us and we handle it differently. It is something we can’t tamp down or ignore; it’s almost as though it has a will of its own. No one can teach us how to grieve or how to deal with grief. We just keep going, one day, one step at a time, until one day, we find life has become bearable once again. Your beautiful words shine through this fantastic soundtrack by Mr. Cohen. You are both phenomenal in my eyes. 🩵 🎶
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Thank you so much for all of heartwarming words. Yes, grief is a phenomenal anomaly, Nancy 💕🥰🤗🌏💙📘🎶
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Very stirring and insightful lines
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Thank you for your kind and thoughtful words, Robbie
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Hard hitting – so true
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Thank you so much, VJ 🥰💕
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Very evocative poem
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spot on Ivor! this is so so beautifully put my friend 💞💞
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