Ditch the ads, upload images and much more - upgrade today from 5.95/month!
Read Contests Groups Learn Forums Store Help
 

Buddy

Missing image

~by Gregg Rowe~

though we were never lovers
your body shook against
my dry lips
your blond hair, wet
as if you just came
from a cold shower
shivering beneath the thin sheet
your body hot

the sound of the typewriter
downstairs pecks against
the opaque
silence
in your room

as I lay next to you
our bodies covered
with your sweat
leaked into white hospital sheets
that we borrowed from
the community centre

I feel your feet
protrude from underneath
the rumpled sheet

they are swollen
like your penis
sometimes was:
outlined through your
tight blue jeans
when you were full of life
now,
your breathing comes in rasps

our minds filled with
stilled photographs
from our pasts
trying to remember
fishing on roaring, white rivers
dancing in black-neon strobe
discos

our founded friendship fluttered
through our separate thoughts
connecting

the white wine we never drank
together,
nevertheless tasted bad

our souls flew
at one another

bounced off
became one

slide
underneath your bedroom door

the typewriter
downstairs
continues to peck away
a life
in black and white

do you dream in colour?
is it like a motion picture?
all I see is
still black and white photographs

images of incidents
barely touching the outer edges

Do not go gentle into that good night
Rage, rage against the dying of the light


outside
the sun hides behind the moon
causing the summer's blue night
to turn black
like your eyes turn
as I continue to caress
your wet blond hair
my other hand
traces the youth of your skin
rests upon a skeleton chest

time has come
when the words
between the beginning
and the end
pass in your eyes
like the eclipse

our short friendship
is a fragment
of our lives
there are no black
and white photographs
no motion pictures
to guard all our memories

as I feel the last
shake from your body
against my dry lips
your blond hair
tangled and knotted
from the wetness
while your body cools

the eclipse changes
to a stream of rain
as it forms a river
against the pain of glass
as I lay beside you
though we were never lovers

in the opaque
silence of your room
I hear
the typewriter downstairs
ceases
pecking out a life



Author notes

EMOTION:  EMPATHY

A Buddy is someone who takes care of a patient in his last dying days and deals with the family in the aftermath of the death.  I have been a buddy to over 75 patients and friends in my lifetime as an AIDS activist and as someone living with the HIVirus.

This poem is dedicated to the person who taught me how to be a true Budddy .  Jerry, my first client.  Jerry was a transvestite, an IV drug user, and gay so his parents disowned him at the age of 20 in 1989.  I was 29 and I looked at myself in the mirror when I met Jerry, dying all alone at the St. Luc Hospital.   I, too, had been ostracized by my family and wondered if this was my fate also.  This was my hardest case, it was my first Buddy team-up and for the next year we became, well, Buddies.  Jerry died at the age of 21 and I made sure he wasn't alone in the hospital this time, he died peacefully in my arms.


*  Thomas, Dylan.   Do Not Go Gentle Into the Good Night

Written January 28th, 2002

In a list

A contest entry

What did you think

    I plan to revise this poem: please leave constructive criticism!
    : , Your review:

    Comment Suggestion: What is your your first impression?
    Line numbers  • Invite them to read
    : no Cost: 0 free left 0 points, You have (?)

Comments

1 - 89 of 89

  • KaseyL
    March 28, 2008
    Edit | Reply
    Wow. This was just so..wow. Such a lovely poem. I saw it. It took me and just..I don't even know. Great imagery. I didn't cry, but it touched my heart...especially the author's comments.

    I am so glad that Jerry had someone to be there with him. Thank you for being a buddy.


  • Amunet Wolfbane Moderators member
    December 30, 2006

    Edit | Reply
    Phenomenal! This piece is gold from beginning to end. The whole tone of it leads you on a journey. You feel it all, see it all and though you don't want to feel the pain of the situation, you cannot help but to fall in love with the whole scene. Feeling the tenderness, the humanity, the love of each life clinging to the other. A silence acceptance of a bond that will never fade. This totally made me cry and yet it brought a slow smile to my face knowing that within eachother it seems there is a peace and that peace touches us all. Outstanding penmanship.


  • Found an Angel
    December 5, 2006

    Edit | Reply
    somewhat moves me. makes me feel strong emotion in confusion. not what i was expecting to read but still a good job. best of luck for you and good job.


  • Mark Rickerby gold member
    June 4, 2005
    Edit | Reply

    Beautiful, Gregg. Nobody deserves to die that way, but he was blessed to have you there. I hope they find a cure for this pandemic soon.

    Your voice is strong and clear in this. Masterfully written.

    Mark

  • feyfalen
    May 30, 2005
    Edit | Reply

    excellent

    A very beautiful and moving piece. This was painful to read, I am sure it was painful to write. Thanks for sharing so much of yourself in this. I want to wish you the best.


  • nell
    May 25, 2005
    Edit | Reply
    this is truly an strongly heartfelt poem and i think it is incredible, not just the poem but also what you do - it would be terribly hard yet you stay there and be supportive and be a friend - i really liked the way you wrote this poem, with such vivid images and emotions and you descriptions are not ones you read everyday on here - very well penned -

    shanelle


  • zombz8me
    January 17, 2005
    Edit | Reply
    i really dont have a clue as to what to say..it was so stunning and remarkably heart-felt..it was really an awsome write..and im sorry about the lose as well..
    -wednesday


  • L. J. Arien
    January 17, 2005
    Edit | Reply
    aw, I'm really sorry. That's horrible. I didn't really get the poem tho. lol. I'm so tired right now, I can barely type...I have to keep back spacing to make this presentable. *falls asleep at the computer, then gets herself electrocuted* sorry! very pretty write ~Ari

  • Goodnight Raven
    December 29, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    I like how you aligned the words and the tone/rhythm you used. "I feel your feet / protrude from underneath / the rumpled sheet" is my favorite line from your poem.

  • ecrivain01
    December 27, 2004
    Edit | Reply

    awesome

    Amazing vignette you have sculpted here. I was intranced by this, and a bit uncomfortable at the same time, I'm not sure just why since I've seen many friends and relatives die (I've outlived almost all of my friends and many of my relatives). Anyway, this is an awesome job.

    Jim Dunlap

  • yellowjacket04
    December 26, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    This is a truly amazing write, as usual. You done an excellent job on capaturing what all you felt. You really have a gift. Thank you for entering my contest.

  • ShesInMyHand
    December 25, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    (chokes back tears) wow. not only sad - but so insightful. i loved the part where one person asks if the other dreams in color and you mention the blakc and white of the page and ink and..... wow. i looked at about half of the other poems in this contest to comment on and couldn't even stand to read through them, but this? it's an honor. amazing write. you are a remarkable person.


  • FifthDove
    December 17, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    I believe I am crying Gregg,
    Awe hun just a great write.

    Cindy

  • QuinnTessEntity
    December 17, 2004
    Edit | Reply

    Amazing

    This was a truly, genuinely amazing piece. The emotions captured, conveyed are intense and profound. I am in awe of the picture that your words have painted and the deep feeling that frames them. Utterly beautiful.


  • lordoftherings gold member
    December 17, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    ~Cherie~ Sorry it is taking me so long to reply to this, I did read it earlier and then a few things happened but I am truely touched by your comments on this poem. Can I offer you a hug and my condolences for your loss?


  • Boe
    December 3, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    This piece was so emotional. My father was diagnosed with AIDS in 1993, they gave him 2 years to live. He had a nurse/buddy also, him and his buddy became really close. My dad died a year later in 1994, but I would always wonder what it must be like to be a buddy. This poem really gives me a understanding of the emotional side of being a buddy to someone and also having to watch them die. This poem was amazing. It really touched my heart. To be able to a buddy to someone and go through this is amazing. You must be a strong person. Best of luck in life to you.

    ~Cherie

  • luvmybabys
    November 21, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    very beautiful poem,and its nice that you were there for him while he passed so he wasnt alone,thank you for your entry...best of luck...luvmybabys...


  • Serenem
    September 20, 2004
    Edit | Reply

    excellent

    This is beyond moving, beyond beautiful...

    Thank you.

    Serenem~Melinda


  • angelbaby67
    September 19, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    Whoa. That was.. just deep. And the comment you left about the poem, just amplifies everything. You're a wonderful person hugs

    Thank you for entering and good luck. Take care.

    <33 Kyla

  • MaybeOkay
    September 15, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    I loved your poem! It was simply awesome! I was reading your bio after I judged the contest, and you are a very interesting person! You have had a lot of influencial events in your life and writing, for you, is certainly awesome! I loved every bit of your poem... I don't think that going into detail is needed because if I love everything, than it's kind of obvious. Anyways, great write! Thanks for entering my contest!


  • Shadow Kitsune
    September 10, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    A lovely write, LoTR. But please re-read the rules and fullfill them all, if you will. Thanks.

    -Michelle

  • benson
    September 8, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    OMG. You have a gift for this type of writing. Angel? No doubt.


  • picklypickle
    August 31, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    lmao
    *sniffle* evil.
    :-D
    -yuxi

  • lordoftherings gold member
    August 26, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    Yuxi: aaaaaah! what's wrong with you?? you make us all feel bad by writing good poems.

    Don't you know I'm just sick..utterly sick I don't attempt to make you feel bad by writing good poems, can I claim years of practice or take a fifth amendment even though I'm Canadian. Gregg

  • picklypickle
    August 26, 2004
    Edit | Reply

    amazing.....O_o

    wow.
    simply... wow.
    This is an amazing poem - beautiful lines that lingers in the mind forever. So beautiful. Your description, the imagery, the emotion that you somehow displayed in this poem is.. good god, simply amazing.

    I wish I can say more, but I can't.... it's just so....

    aaaaaah! what's wrong with you?? you make us all feel bad by writing good poems.

    I hope I'm not being cheesy - I'm just trying to be as honest as I can... terrific. Going on my list of favorites.

    - picklypickle (yuxi)

  • KeepingTheStars
    August 26, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    Compassion is never overlooked and a soul that is beautiful never lives alone!

    You are a good man... this is touching!!!

    " Jerry died at the age of 21 and I made sure he wasn't alone in the hospital this time, he died peacefully in my arms."

    The tears that are in the corner of my eyes, wont make that moment any less of what it was.. I think you are truly an Angel dear!!!

    Criss
    Edited on Aug 26, 3:08 p.m. because 'I can't spell!!!'.

  • megaroniANDcheese
    August 24, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    this was really good. i cant explain it. it was just moving or something. well keep up the good work.


  • imlost
    August 20, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    Honestly i don't know what to say, i mean i've been speachless before but this is a different kind of speachless i've never felt like this before. It's like i literally don't have beautiful enough words to say about this piece of art. i feel touched by your art work. Your poem made a beautiful painting i only wish i could put up on my wall. I loved these lines

    "the typewriter
    downstairs
    continues to peck away
    a life
    in black and white"

    "our short friendship
    is a fragment
    of our lives
    there are no black
    and white photographs
    no motion pictures
    to guard all our memories"

    "the eclipse changes
    to a stream of rain
    as it forms a river
    against the pain of glass
    as I lay beside you
    though we were never lovers"

    Could you write something more beautiful, i don't think so. Sorry i would say more but honestly i don't know what the hell to say. So i'll stick with what i've already said.
    Thanks for entering
    and amazing job
    Keep up the wonderful work
    Good luck
    -Rain Marie


  • AngelEyes323
    August 19, 2004
    Edit | Reply

    Beautiful

    No applause, nor words can convey how deeply touched I was reading this. The story is sad. Your compassion and ability to write with such depth, such emotion and tell a story in such a beautiful way is a rare gift.

    Even more rare is having learned through your experiences the true meaning of life, of love and being able to give of yourself to others with compassion. Many never grasp this, but those that do, understand.

    A beautiful piece that will linger in my thoughts long after I leave this page. Thank you for sharing

    ~Kathy

  • lordoftherings gold member
    August 18, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    Well if I ever made an error, this one sure has not fallen short of one. I have rewritten this poem so many times that it just comes naturally that I think I have written the full thing out and bang, another poet discovers the mistake. Thank-you. And yet, I have also re-read it so many times to friends but not from this site, so in my mind I automatically see the gentle although it does not appear here, so I thank you a thousand times over for pointing out this mistake in the poem. Gregg
    Edited on Aug 19 because ''.

  • zara
    August 18, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    I'm trying to figure out why you left out gentle in your quote. but I think you have a reason.

    when one reads a poem, the emotional response has much to do with how the reader is feeling at the time. this one made me weep. it's strange, you know, the price some have to pay for just doing what they need to do. I can't express the sadness, but you know it more than I.

    that you have brought that out in me indicates how well this poem is written. you bring us into that fold. I thank you (as much as I curse you) for inclusion in the disaster.

    good gawd.


  • Empathy-eyes
    August 4, 2004
    Edit | Reply

    Touching

    This piece is so beautiful and sad. It made me cry on your author comment. The words were just so deep and passionate. I'm glad Jerry had a friend like you to die peacefully in your arms, he wasn't alone. I loved all the words you wrote in this poem, very moving and caring.
    "when you were full of life
    now,
    your breathing comes in rasps"
    That part really hit me hard. It's such a shame that some familes cannot accept sexuality. I'm glad that you both brought happiness and love into each other's lives. Take care, this was an inspiring and beautiful write. Kate


  • heather 802
    August 2, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    I found the poem itself very touching and in some ways upsetting to read. However the author comments that followed sort of uplifted the poem because in a way it's happy that he was not alone. I fear I'm not making sense here, but it is a truely remarkable piece of work. Take care, Heather x

  • kayoftheelves
    July 31, 2004
    Edit | Reply

    :D :D :D :D :D

    Aww meanie this is too sad lol. This is VERY good. lol you're gonna win It was very soft and sweet, and it seemed like what poems whould be like. Not meaningless words, but gentle and touching like yours. Great job!!

    (We're supposed to put the title of a poem here, but I didn't get which one. Of this one? eclipse duh or is it of my poem? Ummm locked in a closet. thats the title )

  • Apurva
    July 16, 2004
    Edit | Reply

    Beautiful

    What a beautiful blend of your beautiful mind and this beautiful write. Quality here, well written.

  • pozo
    July 14, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    This was a beautifully passionate write. I really liked the passion you put into your words- not in a romantic way but in a close friend way, someone who meant a lot to you. This is a wonderful tribute and it's made even better when I know all your references. This is a very proffesional write Thanks for commenting on my poem


  • spirited
    July 13, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    once again speechless Gregg you are a wounder to behold , God bless you...


  • July 12, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    Jerry was blest to have had you by his side,,as many others you were buddy to. I wish from my heart that families could love & accept unconditionally!!Fear sometimes turns to ignorance.I admire you for your bravery in facing opposition, etc.I have 2 sons I love more than anything & nothing could ever change that. I'm just sorry other parents can't love totally no matter what. "It's sad we live in a society where some aren't accepting of others that have different lifestyles! Stay strong Gregg & God Bless you!!

  • --Blue--
    July 11, 2004
    Edit | Reply

    wow...

    Wow....this was amazig. I am so impressed with the depth and power of this write. The words you used were simple and yet this was such a strong piece. It was incredibly sad and made even more of an impact with your comment at the bottom. Once again, I am incredibly impressed. Awesome work.


  • catz Moderators member
    July 8, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    This poem touched me deeply, Gregg. It's written with such compassion, understanding and love. Both you and Jerry are so fortunate to have become a part of each others lives.
    You're doing a service that is so admirable, but it's more than a service.... it's a labor of love... love for your fellow man in his time of highest need.
    I applaude and commend you, Gregg.

    baraka bashad
    Dee


  • Diamond
    June 27, 2004
    Edit | Reply

    Extremely Inspirational

    This was so sad and yet so sweet and sentimental. You were such a terrific buddy to your friend Jerry. He must have died in peace knowing that someone still loved and cared for him. It must have made the passing so much easier. No one wants to die alone . I wish you well Gregg and pray that God have mercy on you and all those who suffer from this ravishing disease. Bye the way, your poem was excellent. Avril


  • melons
    June 27, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    A beautiful poem and a wonderful tribute to the memory of your buddy Jerry. He suffered much heart ache at a tender age and must have found solace in your comfort. God bless you..

    mel

  • dragongurl
    June 27, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    wow...that's beautiful...i'm sure Jerry was happy that you were there by his side when he took his last breath...I'm glad he didnt die alone....
    raychel


  • Trilliana
    June 27, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    I'm a friend of CrystalClrBlood and LostLoveofAFI... and Queen Akasha I is my "mommy" and... this is just... amazing, you've been through so much and it's so wonderful that you've got this wonderful gift that you can share with the world... and to have your "buddy" live forever in your words about him... this is beautiful... brought tears to my eyes...


  • poeticweaver gold member
    June 25, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    This runs deep, as does your heart my friend.... I think you have a wonderful heart, and every time I read your works, you show this within your art, and through your wonderful use of words that speak love clear, and sincere...Thanks for sharing!

    -Timothy

  • saddie23
    June 23, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    I'm at awe at your beautiful mind how it simply capitivates my soul and doesn't let go. If only I was half this good I would be proud. You should get a book published and donate the proceeds to HIV/Aids charties. I'll even buy a book. You are trully amazing. Saddie23


  • galfalfa gold member
    June 22, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    Flawlessly written full of love and compassion for another human being..this world needs more people like you. Very touching - enjoyed this.

  • hellsjustasauna
    June 22, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    this poem is absolutely brill seriously its surprised me with what kool stuff u can acheive with a little help from mr brain (not the one who makes the faggotts)


  • morgana raven Greeters member
    June 22, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    this is sad and powrful great write
    laura

  • Dream A Nightmare
    June 14, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    Wow. Your poetry is real, and the words you use are so unqiue and yet so real and true. But i love each and every stanza on you how described them in a way i could never put my words. Splendid. Great Job


  • kay a
    June 11, 2004
    Edit | Reply

    you are awesome!

    this is yet another great one..you write these simple yet complex poems and they do nothing but make you think and smile and feel...its just...awesome!
    -kay-


  • Andu
    June 10, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    Sometimes we meet people that stand out. They might be the commonest of people to the naked eye, but when we look under the exterior, we usually find a lot more than what shows.
    I am touched by this poem, and I'm glad to see that you are one of those people who are capable of looking beyond the front.
    This is great, I'm impressed.


  • shastadaisey123
    June 8, 2004
    Edit | Reply

    bravo

    Greg...often we walk through the world and never meet a person that so openly shares his gift of life...of talent...the passion in your pen is most definetly guided by the love in your heart and the beauty in your soul...Bravo...freda


  • DarlingDeath
    June 7, 2004
    Edit | Reply

    beautifully written

    my good friend Jess (crystalclrblood) told me to look you up and read "Buddy"... I would like to say that I am completely touched by your compassion and strength, and most definitly your courage. You are quite the amazing man, and I am happy that I looked your poem up. I am completely speechless.
    ~Jennifer (lost love)


  • --Cherry Bomb
    June 6, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    Gregg.

    Although I'm not big on long poems, this one really caught my attention and I kept my eyes on it through the whole thing...Anyone who has been able to say that you've plays a part in their life, is very lucky. And as a friend, I'm honoured to be able to say the same. Beautiful write.

    Love alwayz;
    Kati. "And when you hear the mirror break, that's the sound of an empty soul"~Me.


  • June 1, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    Good poetry. Good work. Enough said.


  • LdyBrknWing gold member
    May 30, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    This is the first of your work that I've read since coming to this site. And what a work! Your compassion for this man who was alone and forgotten, except for you, at his time of passing, is tremendously moving. It's true that most of us cannot begin to comprehend what it takes to face death with one who has battled this disease. I'm sure you gave this young man not only peace in his last moments, but at least as importantly, the assurance that he was loved, and accepted, and the knowledge that he would forever be wrapped tightly in those memories that will forever be embedded in your heart, and mind.
    A beautiful tribute!


  • myrataal silver member
    May 27, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    Dearest Gregg

    Walking on water does not need miracles, but it needs a small spark of Faith, Love and Hope.



    Myra


  • May 26, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    Wow this is powerful hun. Its sad knowing that someones own parents would ostracize them because of their choices or for being who they are. Its nice to know that he is still remembered though even if only by you he is still remembered. You do so many good things for others I hope they are all returned to you someday. Awesome write.
    *~CrytalClrBlood~*

  • cheesy noodle
    May 25, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    thats real sad and it pises em off, a buddy of mine had aids and he had a hard time getting people to accept him, and look passed his illness. he was a great person and friend and he died in 02. i deeply miss him but i am glad to have the \chane to get to know him. your poem is really good. i have nothing negative to say

  • johndoe
    May 24, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    After reading your little auto biography and this poem/story, I want you to know that you seem like a very amazing person. It is inspring to know that someone such as yourself can live each day selflessly, and despite having the hinderance of the HIV virus, can move on and donate your energy towards the helping of other souls in need.


  • artis
    May 20, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    The author and finisher of our fate, has signed off on Jerry, but the keys didn't always spell out joy, nor sorrow, and the spaces between what was long ago written, give us all time to savor the story of life. Alas too soon for some death diminishes into an unfinished masterpiece....and the book is closed with a shudder and shelved with others who were loaned out in the same way to eternity....sorry for your loss...Artis
    Edited on May 20, 11:18 p.m. because ''.


  • Dolce
    May 20, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    I am in awe. There is nothing I can say that can take away or add anything to this poem. It's simply amazing.


  • ArtFullyMe gold member
    May 13, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    The power in this piece is palatable. The entire write grips from the first lines..and then just gets stronger. I felt this not from experience but through the knowledge that some very close friends of mine.. who somehow took other roads.. died this way.. Had I have known ..I would have been there.. I don't think death is ever easy to look in the eye, but no one should have to face it alone...and if it were not for people like you.... too many more ...would. It takes a certain kind of strength to give until it hurts.. yet pass peace to those who are in that transition... and it appears...that you have it...

    Very very well done.

    ~~whims


  • CookieZeal Greeters member
    May 11, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    How compassionate! I'm so very sorry. You must have learned so much through this. I was with my father when he took the Father's hand......and know that he's right across the river.

    I thought this was about something else. But glad it wasn't. Thank you...Warmly, CookieZeal/DB


  • Carole Dudley
    May 7, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    Thank god for angels like you in plain clothes, Gregg. I think all of us hope that someone will lovingly comfort us in our last hours and fear that we will die alone. Thank you for being who you are, and for doing what you do. Of course, the poem is very powerful and deserves to be noticed.


  • -theheartofme-
    May 7, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    You must have indeed been given a strong heart, this poem broke mine. I can picture your friend, you there, holding him tender, caring so he would not die alone. I can hear the typewriter ticking away, spewing out the poison that must accumulate from seeing someone go through something so horrible. You have given an incredible gift of ………..comfort for people who find little comfort in their surroundings.

    Bless you…


  • dp robertson
    May 6, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    What a wonderful piece of writing. It captures a moment that most people could never relate to. You may as well be talking about martians dying in your arms as to relate to this agony. You are a valuable light on this site and I just hope that people do not skim over your writing but really delve into it for the emotional long haul. There are plenty of opportunity for shallow poems, I for one would recommend the next one on Tina's list as a prime example of a poem that plumbs the depths of a skiffle pool. But seriously, what a fantastic writer you are and what a privilege for all at AP to share it.

    David
    Edited on May 06, 8:31 p.m. because ''.

  • Stewy
    May 4, 2004
    Edit | Reply

    Moving

    Wow. It is terrible how people can be ostrized by parents that birthed them. Completely cut off just because of their childs persuation or their disease. You would think that parents or family would take care of them but it comes to people like yourself who dont discriminate or express prejudice. You are a wonderfil human being that takes time to share your life and comfort with someone that wouldnt have that comfort from their family. This write told a sad story that spoke much pain but much beauty. I loved the use of the typerwriter it reminded me of a heart beat and how the story of life ends with the last peck of a typerwriter. This poem was truely wonderful... AIDS is a terrible plague that is taking to many lives. I Thank You for sharing a wonderful write with me and for educating me about "Buddies".
    I hope that one day people start working together more to cease the spread or the outbreaks of this virus.
    I appreciate your poem
    Thanks
    Write On
    Derek


  • Runawaytrain
    May 4, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    Amazing piece. So much emotion. The repetition works so well, and the line from the Thomas poem... well placed emphasis. You have so much to say, it is overwhelming, and stimulating at the same time. Thank you for letting me look through someone else's eyes for a while.

  • Amunet Wolfbane Moderators member
    May 1, 2004
    Edit | Reply

    Nothing could compare to this...nothing...I a

    A really incredible write. What you experience over and over most people might experience once in a lifetime, it's bittersweet isn't it. The heart of a thousand men trapped within you, the compassion to become a Buddy, take care of and befriend knowing the end result. And yet you do it for them and you do it for you as well. To find the comfort of someone who knows and understands what you are dealing with and has no reservations to reach back to you, when the rest of the world is full of ignorance and fear. I've hope I've not offended you with anything I said here, I truly would never do that, I think you understand what I am trying to say. Not only can I feel this piece as I read it, the emotion, but I see so vividly the images, smell the sweat of the sheets, so much so it sends shivers over my flesh as if I were watching from the corner of the room. A finer poet, I have yet to read dear. Truly an wonderous thing you have shared here. Perhaps one day I shall possess an 1/8 of the talent and soul you've displayed here. Bravo...Bravo!!!

    Blessings Always,
    Gyspy

    P.S. Yes, probably only I could read erotic poetry and move to this piece after


  • M.A.King
    April 30, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    my god this is gorgous, sad. i feel very unqualified to even make a comment on this work except to say it took me away as a reader and there was a moment that my eyes filled up. what emotion it brought me to! your work is amazing.

  • lordoftherings gold member
    April 27, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    If you have the strength for it like I do because I have witnessed so much, palliative care is the best field to volunteer in, the rewards of smiles are worth more than anything else in this world to me...to give them peace in their final weeks, days, hours...always rewardable knowing that they enjoyed some aspect of their life through all the pain. (Went on a ramble, sorry)
    Edited on May 06, 10:11 p.m. because ''.


  • Ava Noire silver member
    April 27, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    I think from what I have read of yours, this one has touched me most. Once I graduate med school, I will enter the medical field and I plan on working in a children's hospital, though I worry about all those I can't help. To be there for someone like this is applaudable, something I think I will look into learning more about.


  • angelica silver member
    April 25, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    Gregg, I'm so glad I found you and can share these beautiful poems with you and to have a glimpse into your life and what you have gone through and are still going through. I have heard of the Buddy system and I think it's wonderful that you help them and not let them die alone. I could never do that to any of my children no matter what. You are a wonderful man Gregg and it's an honour to know you my dear friend~Love to you~Joan


  • Clyde1023
    April 21, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    i loved this!...i am crying now...thanx gregg...lol...this was beautiful, i felt like some one i loved was dying in my arms...gregg you are truely the most beautiful man i have ever had the privilage to know,
    love, of course,
    caity
    Edited on Apr 21, 11:00 p.m. because ''.


  • fishingwitch2
    April 21, 2004
    Edit | Reply

    Outstanding!

    Gregg, you know me well enough to know how I feel about your generousity, of giving yourself to anyone in need of an understanding ear. Bestest Hugs* for you, my friend.

  • blond chick lov
    April 19, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    awsome write!! I love the message I just loved it!
    ~blond chick


  • Yusefeligirl
    April 14, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    This piece moved me immensely.
    I admire your strength.

  • Stephibaby06
    April 9, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    Wow...I'm completely speechless. You have amazing work. Just...WOW. Thank you so much for sharing. May your years to come be as successful as the ones that have past. God Bless You, Lordoftherings.

    ~Steph~


  • Aimee Hill
    April 9, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    Ohh.. this was just beautiful... tears have formed in my eyes. While reading, I could tell this was of someone passing... spending his last days with him. You've got a way with words... I saw Jerry, I was there with the last breaths he took, because of your words, I could see and feel it all. I thank you for writing this very touching write. You are an awesome human being, don't let anyone ever change that.

    Keep writing!

    ~Aimee


  • heaven in handguns
    April 8, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    i can't find the words to express how beautiful this is. its so solemn and touching. there is so much expression in your words. it's breathtaking. i'm sorry for the things you have suffered. from what i have read about you, you seem to be such a wonderful person and i hope the best in your life.
    ~kat


  • April 6, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    Thank you so much for writing this piece. It brought tears to my eyes..I do know what you are talking about though I am not HIV+..Thank you so much...I am at a loss for words..You are a very powerful poet, and story teller...You are an amazing peerson for writing this.. again thank you so much..
    Edited on Apr 06, 9:24 because ''.


  • SusanL
    April 5, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    We have something in common you and I. No I am not HIV+, but I to care for those in society that are passed over. My kids are the most frail and fragile. In the three years I have been there I have seen a number of them pass away and was with one boy all through his last days. I was holding him when he breathed his last. YOU are an amazing man and what you give is amazing. Susan

  • ChicaneryInc
    April 5, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    Oooh..I loved it. Great poem! It was very inspiring, and it had a lot of depth to it. Keep up the great work.
    -Lillith


  • poetryality silver member
    April 5, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    The yin and the yang, my favorite symbol and emotion in all the world! This poem touches me deeply. It reminds me of attending to a cousin who was dying from HIV/AIDS. I loved him so, and there was absolutely nothing I could do but make him as comfortable as possible. He was riddled with sores, and very uncomfortable. He begged to die and I prayed to God that he would just pass on. Three days after I left, he did die. I was relieved, for I knew he suffered no more. This poem brought back those feelings, and I so dispise this disease. With that I must end this comment for I am too filled to go on.


  • barefoot contessa silver member
    April 5, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    This was... a poetic masterpiece. Also very touching. The images that I seen in this write made me feel like I was laying next to him. Powerful.


  • Chris Lamb
    April 4, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    I thank you for entering. I will comment during judging...


  • DrkPoet
    April 4, 2004
    Edit | Reply
    There is only one word that comes to mind.... Breathtaking. Fantasic poem, not to mention touching.

1 - 89 of 89