How Could I Forget

#How could I forget# How could I forget your widely smiling face, Your warm enwrapping hugs, your frequent gifts of grace, Before your brilliant mind, which used to dazzle bright, Gave way to Alzheimer’s dark unrelenting blight. How could I forget, the end was very soon, Surprised, you said to me, “Oh, I remember you!” The jumbled words you spoke, I couldn’t understand, But never did I doubt that kind was your intent. How could I forget you hosting mini-church Inside your modest home, inviting all to perch. To our great God, you’d sing, and quell all spirits bleak, Answer sticky questions, with gentle, Christ-like peace. How could I forget how you and wife stood by, When gulping her first breath, my daughter started life. Your good face she saw, her first few hours on earth, Look how she’s all grown up and echoes Mama’s mirth. How could I forget you blessed my second son, Born fifteen months before, he had hair like setting-sun. You touched him on his head, and prayed that God would bless, Protect this lil’ guy, and limit his life’s mess. How could I forget, when you and lovely wife, Brought us Christmas dinner, blessed my first son’s life. T’was sweetest time we had, while sharing baby news, Your refreshing humor helped vanquish baby blues. How could I forget the night my man proposed, T’was in your living room, and you did not oppose. The fireplace was lit, my man was on his knee, While looking into my eyes, said, “Will you marry me?” How could forget, when I was just a teen, I called up you and wife, said needed place to flee. “I’ll pick you up in ten,” you said, didn’t hesitate. You shared with me your home; three months you let me stay. How could I forget, when I was six years old, Broke Christmas ornaments. You didn’t treat me cold. So hard I tried to help - you move from house to house. Yet, seeing broken glass, you didn’t brand me louse. How could I forget, when first I did meet you, Though I was just age five. T’was at a picnic do, Held at Alondra park, And standing in sun’s glare, Your wife held up a sign, said, “Picnic over there.” No, I will not forget, I’ll see you ‘gain one day. I’ll say a proper thanks, as God wipes tears away. We’ll have that cheery chat; your words won’t go awry, 'Cause now you clearly speak, at home above the sky. Dedicated to Roger H., who passed away Valentine's day, 2017