for Charlie
Who knew you would be
with us today?
You have survived multiple
medical crises
While others have fallen like
the leaves
Covering the ground we walk
upon.
Those who survive mourn those
who do not.
You have lost your better
half, the love of your life.
You have lost your older and
younger brothers.
You have lost too many dear
friends.
It is natural to have a
certain melancholy
As we grow old and lose loved
ones
As our bodies age and lose
abilities
As we grow aware of
everything passing away.
There is a sweetness to the
sadness.
We have our memories of happy
times together
And times of need when we
were there
Holding each other holding
things together.
I remember visiting you and
your family as a child
Happy to be accepted and included
in the fold.
I felt the love given and
received by everyone in your house.
I come to visit now to find
that goodness in your core.
You worked hard to provide
for a large family.
You were a good steward of
that large colonial house.
You did good works to help
less fortunate people.
You were like a father to me
when I needed you.
It means so much to me that
you approve of me
That you give me acceptance and praise my successes.
I bring my child and my
sweetheart to visit you
To enjoy your presence and
for you to enjoy them.
Your death will be a great
loss to us
We who have known you over
the years.
We hope that day will not
come soon.
We need good people in this
world among us.
