Frail and in terrible pain
He rose from his deathbed.
His wife and I dressed him.
I drove us to his university
To watch his son graduate.
I pushed the wheelchair
To the edge of the platform
Where he waited in agony 'til
They handed out the diploma,
Then whispered, "Let's go now."
At the car a student of his approached;
"Professor, when might you be available?"
I wanted to scream, Can't you see he's dying!
He replied in his typically gracious manner,
"Let's get together when I am better."
Back at the hospital's cancer ward we
Undressed him and eased him into bed.
After thirty five years, that was the last time
My beloved friend and I would share a day.
We now share the night, in reunions called dreams.
-
Author:
Louis Gibbs (
Offline) - Published: June 7th, 2017 09:26
- Comment from author about the poem: I've been trying for years to compose a proper tribute to this 'man for all seasons' ... artist, athlete, scholar, musician, mentor. This narrative poem, a true story, is what evolved.
- Category: Love
- Views: 41
- User favorite of this poem: alisha.
Offline)
Comments8
This is beautiful ! He sounds like an inspiring fellow!
Indeed he was. Thanks for the comment, virago.
Beautiful indeed - great story and so sympathetically expressed.
Thanks so much, Michael.
Your tribute to a well-loved "man for all seasons" touches the heart Louis and as a mentor he is still reaching many. A memorable read.
Thank you so much, my valued friend. Your approving comments mean much to me.
Beautiful poem
Thanks, Shannon, so much.
When such an influence inspires our life toward excellence we realize that we owe all our best to them . And when they pass away another link of the chain breaks leaving us as the end link . Then we realize we have the greatest load to haul as there is no other link to pass the load on to . That's when we miss them most physically and spiritually . But their memory gives strength to carry on .
Sorry for your lost. The snippet at the end of his life you captured speaks volumes.
Your comments are truly valued, Thanks!
Thank you for sharing your friend with us. The love and admiration is clearly seen in each careful line.
Your kind reply touches me, Heather. Thank you so much.
Wonderful last line!
Much appreciated, Kurt.
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