Each morning I slip into Emil’s robe
fetch the paper and peruse the news
between spoonfuls of raisin bran and cheerios
It’s as regular as a heartbeat
One early morning it dawned on me
that the man who now inhabits Emil’s robe
doesn’t fill it out the way he did
Oh, it fits fine…..that’s not the point
it’s just that no one can take on
the easy grace and zest for life of Emil
by merely donning Emil’s robe
Each morning I slip into the shower
with my mind racing about like a nascar
driver trying to escape the pack
I grab my lunch and say goodbye
to Emil’s daughter….my wife
Starting the car I fasten the belt
and reach for Emil’s watch
Putting the timepiece on reminds
me of how comfortable he was with
his time, his talent, and his treasure
There was no giddy up in Emil’s world
So content was he in his own skin
moving at his own pace and leaving an indelible
mark on all he touched
So generous and so unassuming….
delighting in his golf, his friends,
and the daily winnings at the poker table
I’m glad that I have Emil’s robe….and
his watch to remind me of how special he was
Perhaps someday I’ll move at the same pace and
with the same grace as this extraordinary man
Some say he’s gone but I think not
because it seems as if he’s with me every day.
What You’re Saying