How do you write a poem like this,
How do you know where to start?
How do you build a word edifice
To house the thoughts of your heart?
Untold hours we’ve talked and we’ve shared,
We’ve planned, discussed and then done.
We’ve posted the things that others prepared,
Some work, but a whole lot more fun.
Over those hours a bond has now grown,
A grandma and grandpa online.
The common things form a cornerstone,
A place, part hers and part mine.
One night I noticed she wasn’t there,
She was gone at least one night more.
And I in my comfort was unaware
Of the pain that she had in store.
For fate had decreed in its senseless way
That one she held true and dear,
Would have his life ended that very day,
In only his twenty fourth year.
What can you do and what can you say
To a friend ‘cross all those miles?
You sit and think and quietly pray,
And wonder about all those trials.
So Becky my friend, here’s my hope,
That you and the family get through,
Finding a way to daily cope,
And remember a fine nephew.
You know that I’m here all of the time,
Not knowing just what to say.
So I’ll just pen this simple rhyme,
To hopefully brighten your day.
In times like this there’s not much to do,
Except to say we truly love you.
Author notes
Wrote this for a dear friend going through a time that none should have to face - but often do. Love ya, Becky.
Written March 1st, 2005
In a list
A contest entry
- Riding Out The Storm (CONTEST) by Touchof1der.
300 points, ended March 18, 2005, 11 entries
Gold trophy winner
• next poem in this contest, remove from contest
What did you think
Comments
1 - 14 of 14
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deep
Wow this was so deep and sincere. Sometimes it is hard to pen on such occassions as this. You've done a wonderful job expressing your feelings and congrats on your gold in this piece.
Kari -
Congratulations Paul for your win of the gold. This is a remarkable poem and deserved the win! Hugs, Patricia
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Paul - how do I say how I feel about you and your gentle spirit? When I opened this and realized I had reached your poem, I knew it was going to get to me.. and as I scrolled down and found the picture of him you have posted here, the beautiful things you have done with his photo - the tears stream down my face. This picture is the one that I held in my hand for 24 hours - I showed it to everyone who touched Christopher in that intensive care unit. I wanted them to know who they were working on - because the broken and bent person in that bed was a beautiful boy that had never hurt anyone. But it didn't look like our Chris - his body was so damaged.. and so I wanted them to know what he looked like, I wanted them to see his eyes that had never opened since he had been there. I wanted them to see that sweet countenance that I will hold in my heart forever. Every person that looked at the picture, every surgeon, nurse, aide, technician.. through all the shift changes - every single one of them held the photo and stood looking at it, realizing this boy was so handsome, so young, and I knew then that they knew a little more about him. When Christopher's heart stopped beating at 4:30 pm on February 21st, the picture's edges were bent and frayed. I finally put the photo back up in my wallet. Funny, I don't have pictures of my own children in my wallet for some reason .. just always forget to put them in there. But I had his photo. I'd forgotten I had put it in there, but suddenly remembered it..
Your words have always been so comforting. I know what a strong faith you have, and I know you have prayed for my family throughout this whole ordeal. I know that you have been so patient with me when I've let the magazine go and didn't do the things I had signed on to do because I just couldn't. You always say don't worry, I'll take care of it.
I don't remember having a friend as kind and generous as you, Paul. And I hope that, no matter what happens on this site or in our lives, that we always stay friends. You are very important to me.. you are my hero in so many ways.. and I respect you immensely.
These words have touched me more than you know. I do love you Paul, you are a wonderful friend to me, you care unconditionally.. and I appreciate and value your friendship.
becky
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As tough as it is to read all these entries, it is comforting to know that so many people have come to offer their condolences to Becky, many like this one really get inside you and make you feel the love and sense of loss. thanks for sharing...peace
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Oh boy Paul! Your words have touched me deeply. I am at a loss as to what to say. I know there are those of us who know Becky better than some but you, you have captured everything so eloquently here. Thank you for offering words of comfort and hope during this tragic and difficult time. I have really been moved by the number of people who have taken the time out of their busy days to extend such warmth, comfort and concern. I’m truly inspired by each one. I’ve purposefully postponed the reading of these. I knew I’d need a box of tissues, (thinking now I should have made it a casefor this one entry alone) and some quiet time to myself before I started. I’m very hinored and pleased you’ve entered this. You’re a blessing all by yourself Paul! May you have as much comfort and blessings returned to you tenfold.
♥ Kimberly
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perfectly metered as always, and very nicely expressed.
I'm sure symitar will like this (or rather does) very much.
good luck in the contest,
~Lea -
the sentiments in this write are so very touching and sincere.it always give me pleasure to tead something someone writes and feel it flow from their true selves.it was wriitten to bring comfort to someone in a sorrowful time and it is so very precious.
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AWWW... This is a wonderful poem... It is so loving and caring...
I love the background too...
Hugs,
Beth -
Well i wanted to thank you for the message and tell you that you've done great with this poem! I also wanted to say that the reason it's been a while is because my Ganddaddy passed away on the 21st...Thought not in his 24th year, this poem deaply touched me as my family is facing such a devastating shock. It was totaly unexpected...we are dealing with it day by day but it's just so hard! My Grammy is ok, but still no where near norma;, but i wouldn't expect her to be! Thank you for the write, it's very well writte, and thought out. I understand it's hard to write though because i wrote a poem for the family only 2 days after his passing, and it was very difficult, i will add it as soon as i can! Thanks again, and tell your friend to whom you wrote this that she is in my prayers, and i am deeply sorry!
God Bless
Elizabeth -
Wow Paul this is sweet, made a tear roll down my cheek. You are a great person Paul, you always look out for all that you meet. I dont know Becky, but if she is important to you I will most certainly keep her and her family in my prayers, wish there was more I could do. Great write Paul
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Paul, this is so beautiful, and I know your friend will appreciate it very much. You are a dear friend. Hugs, Patricia
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this is very sweet Paul..expect nothing less from you though..i send my prayers to Becky and her family...good luck in the contest...God Bless
tyler -
This was a beutiful tribute and poem for your friend. She's really lucky to have a friend who cares enough to write a note of hope in a time of grief. I think you did an excellent job.
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It all comes down to love doesnt it ...i thought that this was a meaningful write .job well done good luck in this contest!
twinzy
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