The Gravediggers

Patiently they waited,
Watching each of us exert
Just a modicum of effort
As we shoveled up some dirt.

Every toss drew all attention
As the soil came raining down,
‘Til the coffin top was covered
With a blanketing of brown.

Then the diggers picked the pace up
But they paused while words were said,
The familiar farewell speeches
To a person newly dead.

Next machinery took over
As we slowly walked away
And the workers did the job
For which they earned their weekly pay.

How bizarre to be a witness
Every day to people’s grief.
When the grave is filled and patted down,
It must be a relief.