Dear friend—

Here we are.

Your car has long disappeared down that

dusty, lonely

highway to Everywhere,

and I realize that this morning’s sadness

was a mere prelude to a prelude to

grief.

I don’t fault you for leaving.

It’s time

to collide

with life.

I grew with you knowing

always

that this, this

sad achy burning teary raw

Goodbye

was inevitable.

I only wish we had

more time

to gather

lilacs in the rain.

I wish you…

Everything.

joy

inspiration

love

daring

liberation

satisfaction

hope.

I wish you

all that you deserve,

all that you desire and dream.

My dear friend,

I wish you

roses upon

roses upon

roses.