Tuesday, March 16, 2021

there are no words

Jack who could explain so well 

How to use complex software 

Breaking it down into simple steps 

Patiently training the users


Jack who could keep our attention 

Standing in front of the room talking 

Speaking extemporaneously or scripted 

In his pleasantly modulated voice 


Jack who would not let go of questions

Until I walked him through the layers 

How permissions get assigned and inherited 

Until he learned it inside out


Jack who is so genuinely warm and friendly 

Ready to embrace and delight in being present 

One of my favorite people to work with

Someone whose values I share 


Jack who was stricken two months ago 

Slowly recovering from a serious stroke 

Walking with assistance as I am told 

Struggling to discover how to speak again 


Jack who is not alone thankfully 

If Charles' love can heal then it will happen 

But I keep thinking of him tongue tied for now

Unable to express what he is feeling


Jack who lived his life large and full 

No doubt aware how without warning 

Suddenly sadly everything may be lost 

Here's hoping you regain your dear old self