Fight the good fight

We all know some one who inspires us, the man continues to inspire me and those who know him

As an unassuming, energetic lad
he enjoyed a bit a craic,
never gleaned or nurtured
like privileged Etonian stock,
his upbringing less kid gloved
he carried his own sack
and sidestepped idle talk,
preferring more to walk the walk

That chosen path was cumbersome
with many a jagged edge
but his gait always upright
with purpose in his stride
and if the way was blocked
he'd always find a wedge,
to help remove the obstacle
then journey on with pride

Born of competitive spirit
he played the gentleman's fine game,
indulged in victory's adulation
reverent in defeat,
aware that when the crowd had gone
it was a moment's fame,
and they'll judge not if you won or lost
but how you did compete

Faced down the aggressive tyrant
affording him scant regard,
the thief he had no time for
chased him from the place,
as for the sly old fox
spouting innuendo, conceit and canard,
he silenced him in one fell blow
when he said it straight to his face

And now a chivalrous octogenarian
still, he has guts and soul,
adversity he obliterates
from a self-effacing, humble turret,
with truth and virtue by his side
he has but one treasured goal,
to onwards fight the good fight
knowing if the flesh should wane...
ever willing is the spirit!

Author's Note

Craic ....is a colloquial word meaning fun, good humour etc.

Reviews

[Annette Pisano-Higley]

"To onwards fight the good fight"-yes...stunning, classic, eloquent tribute poem. Superb form, cadence, flow, imagery and rhyme...reflections on the life of an aging athlete- the laurel wreath still green with memories of honor on the field...Love this great poetic portrait. Kudos!

[Tom]

' the laurel wreath still green with memories of honor on the field '. What a awesome line, my sincere thanks Annette!

[Annette Pisano-Higley]

You are very welcome Tom!

[marilyn 1225]

spirited poem and tribute to your friend's great points and soul you always write so well

[Tom]

Thank you Marilyn for your complimentary words !

[Sheila Kline]

To honor one's word is an attribute worth more than silver or gold, yet we so often find just the opposite as our world is engulfed in controversy far too often because of the lack of it. This gracious gentlemen in very sense of the word is just that; gracious and honorable as he values that which uplifts the spirit, rather than that which tears it down!

You mention that he did not have a "favored" upbringing but had the character of one who was favored with virtues of respect gained by speaking words of truth to those who did him wrong, competed with grace, rather than disgrace and valued the sport of the game more than gaining another win.

I don't know this fine gentlemen, but your words have convinced me that he is certainly one to be respected!

Thank you for sharing why you admire him as you do! He is surely worthy of such admiration from those who are blessed to have him in their company!! I am certain our Lord looks down at him and smiles with approval!

[Tom]

Thank you Sheila, and you too honour me with your factual and fine appraisal of my poem !!

[Lydia Shutter]

When an 80 something year old man still fights the good fight and stands up for what he believes in, he is someone to respect and emulate. Not sure who this gentleman is, but it seems you are fortunate to know him and learn from him! What a wonderful tribute. Lydi**

[Tom]

Yes indeed Lydia, I admire and have learned much from this beguiling gentleman and thank you for your always welcome visit!!