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.

[George Love]

Wonderful work. I think we all have a person like this, whether we have realized it or not. Your body of work speaks volumes and serves to inspire every day. Well written!

[Robyn]

this is a beautiful piece. what a great way to remember such an important and inspiring friend

good song choice as well =)

[My Fair Lady]

Friendship is priceless, and when souls can find it, feel it, and remember those that touch our lives the most.. it goes from two...to one golden memory... Truly remarkable.

[Liza]

a friendship like this is rare and a precious gift indeed. you have described it so eloquently.

[abhas]

and if we really think deep enough... there's nothing as good as friendship in this world... gives us a reason to go ahead... to survive.. to smile... to be ourselves... great write...

[H. A. M.]

Paying homage to a friend/mentor is always good. I like the way you portrayed the relationship between you two.

[Rikkevi Rue]

saying little with many words is often the result of such an attempt, but you have said a great deal with few words. In my estimation a poem can rise above the words it is written with and convey sentiment and emotion beyond those words by inviting the participation of the reader and the ability of the writer to draw on the experience and reality of his readership is part of his skill. This is a beautiful demonstration that you have that gift my friend.

[NoneOfYourBusiness akaK..]

sweetly told~ much enjoyed~

[Kymoo]

We never want to let go of a friend such as this. Your tribute and love for this man is deeply rooted through your heart. It took me on a sentimental journey of my own. Thank you for posting such beautiful words.

[sorellaflowers]

Great job i truely enjoy your work(=