Monday, 04 April 2022
A poem for the 26th annual American
National Poetry Month
Ode to a Best Friend
dedicated to the memory of J.A.S.
(1947 - 2007)
Already fifteen years have gone
since you passed into a better world
long before it was your time
I miss you, but comfort myself daily
with the thought that you were too
good for this world — this planet
simply could never be as great a
place as you deserved. If this sounds
unduly grandiose, trust me it is not
You, dear best friend, were a rare
human being; generous, kind and
patient, but showing confidence
and boldness too when needed
Never dull, often surprising, always
charming. Well read and knowledgeable,
but never one to boast of all you knew
Happy to listen to the views of others,
for everyone has the right to be heard
You were modest, but not weak, funny
sometimes too, but never toe-curlingly
uncouth or vulgar. Everything you did
was well-judged and balanced — a quality
that was innate, natural, unforced. Yes, I'll
admit it right here and now — it was a trait
I was envious of and still reflect on
whenever I think of you — wonderful
you. The closest to perfection in a human
being I have ever known. Speaking thus of
others would be overblown and insincere,
but for you every word is true
I thank you for the years we had and for
being my best friend. I'll remember you
always with great fondness in my heart
© Carola Huttmann, 04 April 2022
