Today I remembered the fast paced
stiff-legged gait that got him around the shop.
They all smiled as he passed;
the bench, the tools hung on peg board,
and not out of character the grinder chuckled.
Today I imagine they are just as sad
as the last day he walked past them.
His hands were always dirty
or smelled of gasoline,
nails blackened like those of a grave digger.
These grime covered hands were cherished
all my life;
they were all personality and happiness
and respect, he despised clean ones.
As I watched, almost too young to help,
or later toiled beside him
I learned that everything cleans up…
everything gets forgiven,
and I learned that if you didn’t mind
getting your hands dirty
you could know love.
Author notes
for the passing of my grandfather...a good 93 years he had.
Please tell me what you think
Comments
1 - 5 of 5
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Lovely Tribute
Darling you brought so many memories back for me with this wonderfully penned piece. I could hear my grandfather singing in his lush garden…he had that green thumb. Cherry trees, pear trees, apple trees, arbor after arbor with ripe plump grapes draping like little drops of heaven waiting to be tasted or made into jellies, juice or wine.
He is the one that taught me how to grow things and gift them love…there is something about being on your knees digging in the dirt with someone so special to you that is so humbling. What a wonderful tribute to a love that will endure for an eternity…your cadence brilliant your heart enormous your love a gift that will sustain you each and every day of your life…
Beautiful darling simply beautiful my heartfelt thank you for gifting such a fond moment of remembrance to all whom partake of your work they too will be inspired by these words of love.
Lady E
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Oh how I have missed your writing with the metaphors and double meanings. As always so vivid and descriptive-warming the heart and setting the mind ablaze with images and emotions.
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A touching and descriptive tribute to your Grandfather and the way of life he personified. Written with genuine empathy.
Bill
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what a beautiful and touching piece, as always, these sort of pieces remain my favourites of all time, and this certainly is. I am sorry to hear about the passing of your grandfather, no age is too much for those we love and we wish they lived forever. I am sure he lived a very fruitful life and died with no regrets. May his soul rest in peace. thanks for sharing this wonderful write with us.
Love and light
Lencio
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It's always such a pleasure to see you posting a new poem, Jim ~ and this one, like every other, is brim-full of imagery and atmosphere that you can create with just a few strokes of your pen. A true artist!
This one in particular has a profound empathy and your love of your grandfather is so touching. I was standing right there beside you both in his workshop...smelling the grease and oil and thinking about washing my hands (right up until the last two lines!).
What a gem you are.
Keep e'm coming...
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