TIME FOR GOOD-BYES

Today we say farewell to Frank. You never went anywhere without that smile
it seemed.
You never said anything bad about anyone
not that I heard.
Never raised your voice in anger
Never got down on people who
were negative

Some thought you moved too slow
Or didn't emphasize their issue
or that you should have been
more like
someone else.

But you handled it
took it all in stride
past the negativity
always
Always in the direction
of the best
for the kids

That should be your parting shot
your challenge to all who
come along behind you

what are you doing
what will you do
how did you benefit
the kids?

Today begins a journey
that started awhile ago
the road to independence
and a path to chase after dreams

More cheerfulness, and a booming voice
unafraid of failure
to be set free into the world
to chase after dreams

You've been a giant
all your life
even though, and only for a time
you were quiet and reserved
not spoiling for a fight
or conquest.

And though you're often cluttered
and disheveled
you're unfazed by such shallow measures
not bowed before the cynics
and eager to face the challenges
that lay in the days and miles ahead

We've tried to keep you grounded
focused - there's a fight
we've strived to set some boundaries
help you sort between wrong and right

Mostly we've worked to make you honest
to show compassion and care
and now we have to let you go
for its you we have to share

And now the days arrived
where unshackled by shame
not hidden by pretext
you are set upon the roadway
to chase after dreams.