For Jimmy

Something’s missing.  Did I dream it all? 

Like the itch that disappears when you reach to scratch

Or, the fleeting thought, never to return.

           

He was my friend.  Still is, will always be.

He knew me like few ever have, and I him.

He was really here before, I know,

But now, there’s just the memory…

Of his broad grin and silent laugh through gritted teeth,

Squinted eyes that gleamed with innocent mischief.

The hot breeze off the blazing Cozumel beach

Carries that crystallized memory to me now -

An open air afternoon of cigars and drinks, 

Bar stools under a thatched roof.

There was talk of love for our wives, as men will do...

Only in the rarest moments of unfailing, unabashed friendship.

We marveled at how our children called the other “Uncle” -

A couple of regular guys blessed beyond belief.

Our families linked in a bond that goes beyond the slow grind, yet unfair fleeting, of time. 

He was my friend.  Still is, will always be.

He knew me like few ever have, and I him.

Whether –

The drummer in a smoky Ocean Springs dive,

The dashing tuxedo clad - bride on his arm -

 anniversary  cruise - date, 

The shirtless Dad in his recliner,

The “Blueberry Hill” crooner,

The Ole Miss diehard,

The New Orleans weekend beguiler,

The prayerful churchman…

         

Always the same.

           

He was my friend.  Still is, will always be.

He knew me like few ever have, and I him.

Those times really happened, right?

How can they be just as real as this grave marker at my feet?

Why can’t I remember carrying his casket that day?

How has fifteen years gone by since that day?

Twenty-four years’ bonding – ended, but not undone.

This memory umbrella protects my heart just now

As I brush the wet grass from his name.

Linda holds the LSU umbrella to protect us from the rain.

Which is the reality? 

The cold grey sky above and bronze lettering below?

Or these beautiful memories of my best friend?

The love in Linda’s misty eyes holds me steady

And tells me the truth – always has:

           

He was my friend.  Still is, will always be.

He knew me like few ever have, and I him.