I watched you slowly disappear
the horizon claimed you, tear by tear.
The same such sun that warmed my days,
that shone on me, with steadfast gaze.
I have never known a day without
your guiding light; it left no doubt
of your presence in my protean sky
through flashing storms that did belie
and conspire to deny your place, your face.
But the charcoal clouds did part, and then
there you were, smiling, again.
Past, present, future blurs with sorrow
when imagination grasps ‘tomorrow’;
aware you won’t make your presence known
in hues you were proud to call your own.
But as we say our last goodbyes,
your twilight fading before my eyes,
I know the darkness will never be the same,
hope burns bright a promise: your eternal flame.
In honour of Mahlon H. “Bud” Harris, father of Gwen.
–G.E.F.
