AROS# 10: Gone

Gone

You both occupied your space confidently.

I still see you

In the middle of the high school stage, on my back steps,

And sitting on your rooming house bed, each time with

A guitar in your arms, brown eyes half closed;

Your full lipped smile kissed my best friend

Not me,

Though you hugs were generous.

The West swallowed you whole.

Gone at 45.

A congenital heartbreak.

And you, my friend;

Dancing in the waves,

Carving, surfing;

You were too beautiful for me.

Your long bones, elegant; held a deadly secret.

My touchstone.

My wings.

You stayed ten years longer,

And fought the good fight, a graceful loser.

You left the world a paler place.

The mermaids miss you.

Where are you now?

An ache in my chest;

A memory.

A smile.

  

Ashes.

  

I dream you both alive

 And wonder.