16 Years Ago-

I was sitting in class when that note arrived-

I looked up at my teacher with a tear in my eye-

He said “Richie, grab your stuff your leaving for the day”

I knew at that moment I would be out of words to say-

I walked to the parking lot and there stood my Dad-

Leaning on his white Volvo looking so sad-

We didn’t say much as we made our way over the hill-

We both knew what was coming-I didn’t think it was real-

We arrived at the hospital and everyone was there-

Your Daughter was pregnant-Your son was scared-

I looked around the room tears were singing like songs-

I reached for my Grandfather’s hand-

He told me “Be strong”-

My dad leaned in and by your bed he was at your side-

For one second longer he told you “open your eyes”-

To look around the room to see us for the last time-to know we love you-

To know its time-

You opened your eyes and I still see them to this day-

You past so fast here are something’s I wish I could say-

I would like to say thank you for all that you did-

Taking care of so much, your brother and your kids-

I know it wasn’t easy and I understand more now-

You went through so much-

I want you to know now-

That everyone is well-

Your son is being a man, and being a friend-

Your daughter is good-Your Grandsons are men-

So another year has come and another year gone-

I’m looking at the sky and because of you I’m smiling all day long-

We miss you-

Richard Itskovich

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