I heard coyotes sing the day you died
long and mournful like my thoughts
of your friendship and your laughter
of shared journeys in a tiny town
and journeys in different times and places
where soldiers go that sound the same
except the names have changed
with stories growing longer by the telling,
Awards and medals, ups and downs
the fights alone or against the world
some were won, some were lost
sometimes admonished, sometimes praised
but the highest praise that comes to me
when I think of you will always be,
You were a Good Man, John.
Peace and restful journey Sir, and please say Hi! to Betty for me!
ml’25
(This week I learned that a very special man and friend had passed away after battling that nasty C.)