FRIENDS LONG RECEDED
In the wakeful watches of the night,
While hope of further sleep is possible,
Friends long receded from his life
Gather about his bed in quiet company.
Still they are as once they were,
Easy-limbed and filled with future,
Recalling the pleasant folly of their dreams
And the love in which they held each other -
Strong bonds that stretch the years unbroken.
Before first light his comrades fade,
Purposely leaving ajar the hostal door,
And, comforted that somewhere they await him,
And he is not forgotten,
He turns onto his side to sleep a little more.
By Michael A. Taylor