Old friends leave

It’s that time of year

a change  in our belief, a knowledge

this won’t last forever.

 

I feel the future form

different redefined

full of dreams we tried to have

so many years ago.

 

I listen to your songs

richer now than ever

your voice a velvet throb

songs of love & love’s bold treasure.

 

Yes, I listen to your songs

fill the big house

bouncing from the walls

you’ve laughed & cried over

 

& the children all grown strong

hold hands for a tomorrow

we will never see: while old friends

leave picture postcard faces

 

their scars on you & me.

 

I listen to your songs

their wave of loss & leaps

here, a pocketful of bliss

there, a love so deep earth

 

could never hold it.

It flew away to God,

escaped on gossamer wings,

& left you singing for us.