23 Is Too Young To Die

When I found out you died I scrambled and panicked.

Not because you were gone, but needing proof of your presence.

I checked the last texts and tore up my bed

I want to 
throw. up.

From the last words we said.

Your friends never knew because you kept me
From you.


But then you died.


Your efforts to compartmentalize your loved ones for fear of being seen..

Crashed 
When you did.

You gave us no choice, leaving us alone.

Your sweet guarded soul, 
childlish
but protective. 


I want to push and shake you,

For being so reckless!



We came together though, after you left. 

Your mom and sis did lanterns and 
we almost burned down the sky,

You would’ve laughed so hard
while all of us cried.

I talked to your roomies, and their girlfriends too
Crazy how much we really all
loved you.

One night I drove up and sat on your bed. 
Amelia let me in—  it’s healing,
She said.

I took one of your hoodies, and it still smells like you’re here
Smothering into it, makes our love feel so pure.



I think about you always, and I’m still 
So mad
and 

Desperately sad.


You lived so fast.

Speeding until the end,
Surrounded by fire.
 
I pray you weren’t there, or at least
were unconscious

Because
Your pain ending in pain wouldn’t be right 

It’s been two months and I still cuddle 
your hoodie at night.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2024

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Croft Avatar
September 13, 2024 at 8:18 AM
So very sad when we lose people so young.
McGill Avatar
September 17, 2024 at 8:04 PM
Yes. He was my best friend.
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