"The kind hand extends, feeds such anticipation. Today everything is borrowed. And it follows you everywhere"*

                  ------------
I borrowed,
my smile for today,
from my memories of us.

How many times,
my friend,
did your hand,
reach out to caress
and soothe,
my weary soul.

Countless upon countless.

Touches of love
and tender kindness,
that kept me sane.
When the black, black dog  came to my door.

For this
and so much,
more unspoken.

I thank you.

And in days to come.
When only memory is left,
to feed my grieving heart.

The touch of your life
on mine.
Will stand and lead me forth.