In memory of Peter

He was a frail, crack addicted preemie with atelectasis, brain seized in a tidal grip.  Dependent on the love of strangers and their expertise in operating the machines that clung to him like an umbilical cord. His senses were filled with life support sounds that cradled him and kept him warm.

They loved him before they met him, faces pressed against the glass of the NICU.  He would be their child, if he made it through.  They prayed Dear Lord, Thy will be done, for they knew in truth; he was God's son.

And so he lived!  Defied the odds.  Climbed mountains, took chances, passed hurdles where limits were set. God taught him how to be and give his best.

Time passed, life was good, and then the cancer hit - relentless and swift.  The thing was, he didn't know how to quit.  Didn't know how to say enough, for enough had always been an integral part of him.


He fought hard to live
even harder to die
The transition seemed endless
as the family stood by

They watched, they waited,
they cried and they prayed
God's infinite mercy
shine on him today

This is our loved one
once vital and strong
Who suffers in silence
trying to come home

Lift him up, oh Father,
In your gentle healing hands
Soothe his stricken spirit
If there's doubt within the man

Quench the bitter thirst
that parch his weary lips
Let him feel the grace of God
through the nurse's fingertips

And when his journey's ended
and he's seated by your side
Grant, Dear Lord, compassion
to the ones he left behind.