The Last Mile
~~~
I did not want to see fear, not in those eyes
The one’s that stare back at me in the photo
Your arm pulling me to you, a big brother
My idol of a youth now many decades ago
~~~
I did not want to say a prayer, not those words
To your God who needed you more than I do
Who says you are somehow now earthly gone
Yet everywhere I look I find the pieces of you
~~~
I did not want to cry, not those tears
Falling onto to the freshly broken ground
Another flag to remember a hero lost
And the solace your rest has been found
~~~
I did not want to ride, not that bike
Not for the last time, kickstand down
They may have buried you in the earth
But this was your hallowed ground
~~~
commonsensiblyspeaking 
Heart breaking to read, Brad. How beautifully expressed.. your emotions .., eloquently written a fabulous dedication to your brother. I can almost feel his presence. Your poem just takes you there.
Thank you, Yasmin! I feel his presence everyday.
It’s been almost 8 years since our brother took his last earthly breath, and yet, your words bring me right back to the moment when you spoke at his memorial service and your pain was palpable.
Just another reason I am going before you do. The pain of losing you may be too much for me to survive. Love you, sis!
Very moving, Brad. It’s strange how, though we’re forced to let someone go, they never really leave our life entirely. I was reminded of that just yesterday when I ran into my late best friend’s son at WalMart. Suddenly the context of my life shifted backwards and it felt a little surreal under the florescent lights.
Thank you, Sudra! What a great story and perspective to share. The people we love never leave us.
Oh, Brad. I can feel you in this poem. You express your emotions so eloquently. This is one of those poems that makes me wish I could reach through the screen and hug you. So beautifully written, my dear friend. You have moved me to tears. Your brother will always be with you! I am sending you big hugs and much love! ❤
Thanks, Kristian! I have been blessed to have the time we had together and carry those memories like treasure.
absolutely heartbreaking and beautifully written.
Thank you, Beth!
I’m sorry for the loss you, your sister, family, and friends endured. Thank you for allowing us to read your beautiful words. Your shared pain, so eloquently expressed, gives me comfort when reflecting on loss. Prayers and blessings, my friend.
Thank you, Karla!
You’re welcome, Brad! Take care, my friend!
Touching and heart-breaking words but beautifully expressed.
Thank you, Francisco!
You’re welcome Brad!
You reduce very complex things to beautiful words.
Thank you, Geoff!