Wayne the Wonderful 1935 - 2009

by Chris Gilman
(Wenatchee WA USA)

You left me in early January; a departure not unexpected;
So gently, so softly and so peacefully, passing on to another life;

We played Eddie Arnold albums that morning and
Through your coma I could tell you heard the music.

I sat by your bed;
Our pup by your side,
Her little nose pressed against your hand;
I told you it was o.k. to go;
I told you I understood why you had to go.
I told you I would always love you.

So gently, softly and peacefully, you left me.

The physical suffering ended,
The debris of sickness taken away,
Your dear body reduced to ashes.

I filled the house with red roses and music to keep you close,
And found comfort in those things.

I held our pup and cried my heart out, shouting your name,
Wanting to hold you just once more, wanting you back;

But gently, softly and peacefully you left me.

Oh how I wish I could tell you once more how much I love you;
Oh how I wish I could hold you again; to see your sweet face;
I miss your wisdom, your kindness.

Pipe-dreams slowly fade; the reality of death strikes home.
I treasure our years together; and hope we will meet again.

Knowing that now you start a new adventure,
Unencumbered and free to explore the universe,
Calms my grief and slows the tears.

Wherever you are right now, in whatever time and space,
Please save the place right next to you for me.