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.

[InkSlinger]

A delightful piece of work. It touched my heart, and brought me to reflect on my grandfather, who like George, lent his heart, hands, and example to my life. He has been gone well over 25yrs, but I still call on his example to guide my own children.. Thank You Tate.. not only for a great tribute, but also for helping remind me of the gifts that have enriched my life..

[Mauricio Montoya]

What a great tribute for a dear friend. Thank you for sharing.

[The Analog Kid]

Real touching tribute to your friend. Some of us have been lucky enough to hve known someone like this in our lives. Your flow works well here.

[Bard Constantine]

Fantastic tribute to a true friendship. Something like this is rare to find, so it's wholly appropriate that you treasure such a bond...

[Coyote Poetry]

A very good poem. We need the elders and friends who lived a long life. The people with knowledge of good and bad times. Allow us to have a better road to be on if we listen. A outstanding poem. Thank you. I like the photo.
Coyote

[Jeff Bresee]

I have always gravitated toward older friends. What they have to offer is priceless. Very well done. Great feeling.

[Ashley June Canfield]

This is beautiful. (:

[Rajarshi]

Very nicely written Tate. I do not know whether you are talking about a mentor or an old man who has helped you a lot in your troubled times or be it your happy times .. But i surely know that this old man is very special !

[Austin Smith]

Another insightful poem as always, Tate. I also feel the need to thank George; I perceived that his patience and exuberancde have rubbed off on you. =)