i have a memory of man who loved wearing jackets and formal shoes.

he was wise and taught me to be better than him. he was the first to teach me how to pray, and taught me faith for the darkest hour of day.

he used to tell me of his younger days. he told me about his school days, and how good he was with numbers.

they tell me he was the last of seven, and the first to see heaven. i have a memory of a man who loved wearing jackets and formal shoes.

he gave me my name, and was the first to hold me when i was born. this man had black eyes and always cut his hair. always.

he took me to school on my first day. he bought me books to read and asked me to be better than him. even though he’s gone. he’s not.

he believed in education. he believed in me. i can’t believe i never spent time with the man. i have a memory of a man who loved people and wore formal shoes.

even though he’s gone. he’s not. please turn back the hands of time.

i have a memory of a man who loved wearing jackets and formal shoes. he had hope in his heart.