My brother.

I don't know why I even let it come into my head lately. One might look at it as some kind of perverse torture but for the last few weeks I have been thinking more about my brother. This upcoming march will be the three month anniversary(?) of his death. I'm running out of words so I'm just going to post something I wrote instead.

Things are never easy
Life is a complicated game
The rules are a little hazy
And the results are never the same

You played the hand you were dealt,
with kindness, tenderness and grace
No matter what the circumstance,
a smile was on your face

Whatever work you could find
you always did your best
Only taking time for those you loved
And never for your own rest

Striving to get by
And helping those around
Putting everyone before you
With not a complaint to be found

You traveled lightly through this life
Not many possessions to pack
A few necessities and mementos
And your clothing all in black

For you this game is over
but you've played it well
Succeeding when you could
And smiling when you fell

Your shackles have been released
the chains of this life fall free
Go finally live and be happy
Just save some room for me

With the help of my sister I read this at the funeral.  Not my best work but then at the time it was good enough.