He falters now where once trod firm I helped him whenever I could Here was he, whose favor I'd sought frail body where the man once stood
My spirit soared and loves him still he had heard my heart’s lonesome cries When I was the child of few years while he a man grown old and wise
His was the soul I based mine on the kind spirit who loved me most Strength of purpose flowed from his mind now stands this vision like a ghost
I bear witness as time runs out where once I advanced in his sight Both by favor and through merit his eyes beheld my future bright
In time may we all find our place helping others achieve their dream While I could only hope to be held by someone in such esteem
He's lost none of his true spirit that still holds to my heart so dear I will follow where this heart leads every day of every year
Tate
The original with music and video of Georges wedding from 1957 in 8mm is here http://www.writerscafe.org/writing/aristate/644192
Some of us have had the pleasure of meeting a gold soul.And thankfully never forgot it . I wrote this for my friend George whose heart led my soul through life when I needed him most. Would that I could grant him a few of my own years. George suffered a stroke 10/25/12 and all was touch and go. Though he has recovered I feel the hand of time on my shoulder. Reminding me that life is precious! What is the value of a man? To me George is the greatest man I ever knew. It has become quite evident that I will have to face this pending loss. I hope I can do this with the dignity befitting this great man. From this once wandered man to be I would just say. "No one was ever more loved than he is by me." "Thank you George."