My Friend

He is the greatest soul I have known. Born to hardship and through pain, he alone showed me the meaning to life.

George and Ann's wedding. Salvaged from 8 mm film.

He falters now where once trod firm

I helped him whenever I could

Here was he, whose favor I'd sought

frail body where the man once stood

 

My spirit soared and loves him still

he had heard my heart’s lonesome cries

When I was the child of few years

while he a man grown old and wise

 

His was the soul I based mine on

the kind spirit who loved me most

Strength of purpose flowed from his mind

now stands this vision like a ghost

 

I bear witness as time runs out

where once I advanced in his sight

Both by favor and through merit

his eyes beheld my future bright

 

In time may we all find our place

helping others achieve their dream

While I could only hope to be

held by someone in such esteem

 

He's lost none of his true spirit

that still holds to my heart so dear

I will follow where this heart leads

every day of every year

                               George and I at Tates Graduation 5/24/14

Author's Note

Some of us have had the pleasure of meeting a selfless soul.And thankfully never forgot it .
I wrote this for my friend George whose heart led me through life. Would that I could grant him a few of my own years.
I feel the hand of time on my shoulder. Reminding me that life is precious! What is the value of a man? It has become quite evident that I will have to face this pending loss. I hope I can do this with the dignity befitting this man.
"Thank you George."

Reviews

[roarke]

I appreciate the strength in a man that can genuinely pay such an honest, heart true homage to someone. The positive flow and respectful tone spoken here is hard earned in humility and courage. May we all discover this in our lives.
You've learned well Tate, bravo.

[Tate Morgan]

I never got the chance to thank you for this as we werent able to do so 7 years ago when you wrote it. I thank you now as George passed away two days ago. I look back on the memory of this man with utter reverence,love and respect.

[tynamite]

I love this poem. You write poems well.

[Nobody.]

Nice poem. Enjoyed the flow of this. It's a fantastic tribute to what sounds like an amazing friend. You did 'em proud here.

Cheers!
R.G.

[Siddhartha]

This is a wonderful piece of work Tate...A poem whose power is packed in its density and brevity...God knows and we all do too I think that a truly loving friend, one who'll stand through thick and thin, is priceless.friends are our anchors who protect us from dangers and also keep us grounded lest we fly so high that we break our bones falling down...And for all those reasons your poem's a special treat...:)

[Jim Parson]

This is a beautiful and obviously loving tribute. Everyone should have such a friend. Everyone should be such a friend.

[DeViouS]

A great subject presented with such feeling and understanding. The aging of those we look up to, emulate and care about can be so difficult but looking to encourage and help others is so important too. Great photo too.

[Short.Nerd]

A beautiful poem. great job

[Champagne]

This is beautiful, a very touching tribute, rare in its honesty. The verses flow easily and the theme is tightly set. Very nice!

[Anatomical Grip]

beautiful and touching. we all yearn to have such a friend who's going to be there with us every step of the way

[kaylynnmelody♥]

yes, another great song selection. I love this songg. one of my favorites, i think you are going through my iPod and finding songs for your poems! ha this was a great peice and it made me think about all my relationships. thanks for this peice!