I Had A Friend
By Sheila Young

I had a friend who once taught me to be braveto

face a world of unknown -to smile.

I had a friend who knew me, my fears and my flaws.

A friend that stood by me years ago,

through an illness that changed my life.

Now… I stand by … watching as Illness takes control

tearing the pages of his life away

As days grow oldas

we grow older…

His bright light is slowly fading

The fragility of life has now made him frailthe

reality of death -

now the reality of his life.

Disease that has become his closest friend;

now his closest enemy.

His weaken body;still glimpses of my old friend…

flashes of what used to be but will never be again.

I see the pain that has robbed him, that has delicately weaved an intricate path through his veins.

I see the joy in the little things, that once meant nothing but now is everything.

I had a friend who loved life.

Remembered laughter echoes all around -reaching to the every corner of my mind.

A life that has touched everyone in a special way.

I had a friend who I will always remember. Who I will always love.

A body that wants to let go, a heart that wants to beat on- a life remembered - cut short.

I will hold your hand and won’t let go until I have to.

Until peace surrounds you, and takes you home .

I was blessed to have known you,

I was blessed to have loved you,

I am blessed to always remember you …

when I had a friend …

for you ,Tony…