Last night, I shed a tear for you, thinking about your daughters, son, and mother to your kids. A simple man who strayed away from trouble. You will be missed. There was a shining brilliance to your stillness, a wise man in disguise who helped me believe that, somehow, I could touch the sky. I saw some pictures on the day of your interment. I wish your loved ones didn’t need so much strength. I see the ones you left behind, shattered, facing their sorrow as best they can. Our greetings were fist bumps, but I hate to just remember you when you were always at arm’s length. I admired your outfits, and when you came home from a long shift, you still kissed your children’s foreheads. You treated me as your own. I met you in oh-two diving deep into your dominoes, and now the soil knows your bones. You always said that life was short; you’ll spend it all while you’re breathing. I see your point. May God rest your soul, and hope you found some peace before leaving.
My friends lost their father. I wish I could be there for them in these hard times. They’re on vacation. They were celebrating great things, and then an integral part of their identity was suddenly gone. I have never felt grief; this may be the only time I relinquish my curiosity. I can feel their pain. I know just how much he was loved and how much he loved them.