Gary

I wrote this to my stepfather of whom passed away last week.

Gary

 

Benison was his name, but it was Gary

but if you were to ask him, he’d be contrary

if you knew him, you’d know it’s true

for a good turn… was his point of view.

 

He had a way, to see and say the score

of the good or bad and place it to the fore

in life, himself, in you, or me, such truth

and make you laugh in the face of its review.

 

And yes Gary, in true Irish fashion

would grumble his, dissatisfaction

on a litany of failures, he’d stew

or his next benefactuous… pursue!

 

In sadness, I write this benediction

And in his manner, I’ll say no fiction

but failure, never bore your description

Only love and kindness 

shall be your inscription

Author's Note

Gary was a photographer and had a keen eye, he spent many years as a traveling salesman and as such gave him a very interesting perspective of humanity. He also lived in Mexico for a while to photograph life there. I always enjoyed hearing his stories about the people he met and the things he experienced he always had a way of making you laugh in spite of yourself in the spins he would make regarding the human condition. To quote my mother "he didn't think he was loved" Well I decided I had better set him straight because nothing could be further from the truth!

Reviews

[Bhuyanshi Talukdar]

This is a touching and heartfelt poem that really captures the essence of a life well-lived. I love the way that the you used vivid imagery and rich language to explore the complex emotions and experiences of loss, and the way that the poem builds to a climax of emotional intensity is truly breathtaking. The final lines, "Only love and kindness shall be your inscription," are a powerful expression of the transformative power of a life lived with compassion and generosity, and they serve as a poignant reminder of the importance of staying connected to the people and values that matter most to us. Overall, I think this is a wonderful piece of writing that will resonate with anyone who has ever been moved by the power of love and kindness to transform lives and leave a lasting legacy.

[Robert Trakofler]

He is sorely missed, we all lost something in the wake of the pandemic so I am by no means complaining merely stating facts. I wish he and my mother would have been able to do more traveling before he had to go it is what he loved LOL albeit with a bit of grumbling beforehand.

[Bhuyanshi Talukdar]

It's understandable to feel a sense of loss and sadness during these difficult times. It's important to cherish the memories we have and remember the good times we shared with our loved ones. Perhaps you can find comfort in the thought that your father is now at peace and that his spirit lives on through the memories you have of him. As for your mother, maybe you can suggest some new travel ideas for her to explore and enjoy.

[Robert Trakofler]

LOL, I'm working on it!!!!!!!

[Ted Kniffen]

Gary sounds like the sort of chap you'd want to pop by the pub and share a pint or two and revel in those astounding stories and wonder how many were true or came from a well honed sense of the absurd.

No lack of absurdities in this world I think.

Sorry for your loss Rob.

[Robert Trakofler]

Thanks Ted that’s how my mom first met Gary she was a bartender at a local watering hole lol

[Stella Armour]

Irish men are wonderful at storytelling, and i just love Irish men having married into 2 Irish families .
Mind you they are rogues of the first order but so loveable you just have to like them .If i hear an Irish accent now i will walk away very quickly as it makes my hear sing lol

A lovely tribute really Bunny , i am sure he was well loved ..

[Robert Trakofler]

I have often wondered just what it is about the Irish that makes them that way LOL but you are quite correct he could spin with the best of them:)

[Stella Armour]

complete blarney, and they do it perfectly Bunny lol :)

[Betty Hermelee]

I believe I would have liked Gary, as you portray him...well traveled and a talented photographer, he saw the world through his lens...seems like he had good humor, but like anyone else, frustrated at times...saw his own flaws and those of millions on his travels...a lovely tribute to your step-father Robert.
Best, B

[Akinlolu]

A fitting tribute to a man I wish I knew. I could see Gary clearly through the lens of your verse. Regards.

[emmajoygreen]

The world should have more of both of you: a real character worthy of such a glorious tribute and another who thinks, feels and utters such finely laid words. This raised a tear or two, dear Bunny.

[Robert Trakofler]

Hi Emma:) Benison is such a perfect word for Gary every once in a while you find a word and it writes a poem LOL I am so pleased you liked this treatise he is a very special soul our loss still stings... but were thinking of some good ways to memorialize him

[emmajoygreen]

You could not have created la better or more sincere tribute, dear Bunny. There are friends who epitomize true fellowship. What wonderful memories you have of your Gary.

[Chris Shaw]

A moving tribute to your stepfather who thought he wasn’t loved. He clearly was from reading your author notes. Anyone who can make others laugh has a gift. That isn’t easy to do. Dear Bunny you have done Gary proud. Sending you condolences on your loss.

Chris

[Robert Trakofler]

the pandemic stole a lot from us over the years and I'm afraid we didn't get enough time to be together until recently... I think it put a toll on him:(

[Chris Shaw]

The pandemic messed with too many lives. So many people separated from loved ones :(

[Red Brick Keshner]

Warmest sympathies, we observed the first year anniversary of my dad's passing. I find this quite an involved and 'meaty' poem to his memory. Peace.

[Robert Trakofler]

I'm so sorry to hear this my heart goes out to you!

[Annette Pisano-Higley]

“Only love and kindness
shall be your inscription”
Dear RBB, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your beloved stepfather, Gary. This poem is a sweet, pristine tribute to a humble man who had a huge impact on your life. A “good father” story is a rarity for many. I so appreciate the rhyme, rhythm, balance, jocularity and loving humor of your lines. I’m sure Gary is reading them , and smiling…

[DIVYA]

Well now he knows you love him so, after reading this rich tribute from a well earned place in heaven. He was a great stepfather, loving, creative and caring and your words have beautifully brought out the sheen of his persona. Blessed are those who leave in their wake such fond memories. ❤

[Robert Trakofler]

Hey Divvy:) I have known Gary since I was a teenager (poor fellow had to put up with me LOL) It never gets easier and things never happen the way you think they will... he is much younger than my mother and I had always assumed she would go first and I think so did she.

[DIVYA]

Dear Bunny,
We never know who'll go first. God's plans never reveal themselves. Always the most unexpected. 🙏