tribute to a friend

you died so unexpectedly
alone in your house
I wish I had been there
to comfort you

they say you died before
you hit the floor. . .
a massive heart attack

I begged you not to smoke
you lied and said, only 3 a day
but I know now
what you meant
was 3 packs

you were generous to a fault
and I will miss your sarcasm
your raunchy sense of humor
your biting comments

and yet, you would have
done anything I asked

wish I had been there

in more rational moments
I think that maybe
it worked out just right
your body had
nothing left to give
you're better off where you are
sharing thoughts with my mother
whom you loved like your own

speaking of your own. . . .
now that's a pleasant thought
you and your mom
sharing thoughts
catching up on old times

I still wish you would come visit
you don't have to stay long
just pop in to say hi

one more hello
one more "I love you,"
one more good-bye.