Mike

so frail
in a rented hospital bed
JoAnn always by your side
who knew you were dead
as you died
without your downhill skis
on a Blue Sky chute
deep powder and trees
tight enough for a single line
a homemade meal
a glass of wine
i toast your memory
as a friend of mine
on a mountain bike
sweet single track
and not wanting to ever
ever go back ever go back
hunting with the decoys
and the dog or a boat
in a tidal current
keeping afloat
in all kinds of weather
the fishing and the sand
the summer road bike rides
legs and arms fully tanned
Alaska waits
the long and straight road
your garden waits
perfectly hoed
the pool full of volleyball
missed shots and laughter
great times and loves and
all that came after
clear eyes and your smile
friendly and genuine cheer
stay awhile stay awhile
linger here
don't go
don't go
the grandchildren are near
the grill is lit
your place to sit
the kids are calling
their voices soft
while your voice is falling
put your tired hand around my arm
let me lead you away from harm.