A Collage For Dale

Here you are, only twelve, at our kitchen table.
Such a carrot top you were! Strangers used to think
you were our red-head mother’s natural son.

And here’s that photo you took of me at college.
Though you’re not in it, how could I ever forget
it was you in front of me that snapped that shot?
For I’m laughing and so glad you came to see me!

In this one, all ten of us are in the back yard
dressed in our Sunday best - our first big reunion!
I’m nearly 30;  just look at my silly perm!
Folks still mistake me for Dori in this picture!
Look how Mom and Thea - for once - are smiling!
You’re standing behind me, in a lovely grey suit,
only 32 and almost out of law school!

Here from more recent pictures, this shows a rare time 
we  were joined, but sadly,  for Dad‘s funeral.
You‘re not in this one, Dale . . . nor in any others.
That picture in our back yard was to be the last.
My dear stepbrother, the best man I ever knew -
Taken from us so young. . .  you remain beloved.


Written 10/9/13
Used today March 24, 2021 for
A Meaningful Poem - Poetry Contest 
Sponsor: Constance La France
Copyright © | Year Posted 2013

Poem

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12
Goldsmith Avatar
March 30, 2021 at 9:07 AM
Congratulations on your win. A wonderful story/write. Pictures are the best along with memories. Have a blessed day............
Poet Avatar
March 29, 2021 at 10:23 AM
Congratulations, Andrea, This is a tremendous high win, and I'm sure you deserve a lot more. My profound respect
Allison Avatar
March 29, 2021 at 8:29 AM
Such a lovely tribute Andrea I know from our mails how special he was, hugs Jan xx
Mitra Avatar
March 27, 2021 at 11:51 PM
Beautiful Andrea...I could see the picture come alive....Congrats on your top win...much love :)
La France Avatar
March 27, 2021 at 4:46 PM
Andrea, congratulations on your win in my challenge, A Meaning Poem and that is exactly what you gave me, it truly touched my heart, so sorry for the loss of your dear stepbrother, well done _Constance
Inman Avatar
June 1, 2020 at 7:40 PM
I remember you telling me about your brother. What a sad way for him to leave you. It hurts me to think about it. You had to include a poem about him or the this list would not be complete.
Gauthier Avatar
May 24, 2020 at 12:35 AM
Awesome share, Andrea.
Watt Avatar
May 23, 2020 at 11:50 PM
I know your bond with Dale was deep and losing him left a big hole. Your heartfelt love for him is evident as you share the pleasant memories triggered by these photographs. Sad for the loss, happy for the memories, life in a nutshell. Engaging write, my friend. Hugs ~ John
Theraven Avatar
May 23, 2020 at 1:11 AM
And the children's laughter with their parents cheers, so it goes with a wave, the many passing years. -Richard
Konos Avatar
January 18, 2018 at 8:20 PM
Very sorry for your loss
Lamoureux Avatar
November 13, 2013 at 9:13 AM
This is so sad, you pulled us into your pictures. What a lovely heartfelt piece.
Bantawa Avatar
November 13, 2013 at 12:19 AM
congrats Andrea!
Mehta Avatar
November 12, 2013 at 9:09 PM
Congratulations on the win, Andrea
May Avatar
November 12, 2013 at 7:59 PM
congrats on your win Andrea....thanks for your encouraging words ....hugs
Guzzi Avatar
November 12, 2013 at 7:32 PM
All the joy of a BIG family! Congrad's on your win. Light & Love
Jones Avatar
November 12, 2013 at 6:12 PM
I felt every word and was left with a lump in my throat...a definite heartfelt collage...and super winning poem
Anglesey Avatar
November 12, 2013 at 1:59 PM
Andrea, congratulations on the well deserved win. Belated condolences for your loss. I was just as captivated as the first time I read this. Going in my faves
Adams Avatar
November 12, 2013 at 11:45 AM
congrats on your win! hugs
Gorelick Avatar
November 12, 2013 at 11:09 AM
Oh so sad...I love your description of your carrot top...congrats my dear. BG
Babcock Avatar
November 5, 2013 at 11:07 AM
Such a sad write on someone you miss. Nice tribute Andrea for your step brother Dale.love phyl
Horsman Avatar
October 14, 2013 at 7:07 AM
Oh wow, sure glad i've read this Andrea, i don't need reminding you are a wondrous poet, but if i had, this sure would bring me back on track.....amazing from you your diversity so astute. so wonderful....
Gasun Avatar
October 12, 2013 at 9:03 PM
This is a very lovely poem bringing back good mem'ries w/ a person who once became a big part of your life my dear friend Andrea. A great poem and dedication as well. Thank you so much for sharing! Have a very wonderful weekend to u & your love ones. love lots & big hugs, Leonora
Richards Avatar
October 12, 2013 at 6:44 PM
Such a heart warming collage that says so much about your relationship with your step-brother. How wonderful is this!?
Duncan Avatar
October 12, 2013 at 4:36 PM
So many memories when we look at old pictures, nicely done Andrea ;} <3
Austin Avatar
October 12, 2013 at 9:05 AM
Looking at old photos is a real emotional thing. Makes you want to bring people and things back to life in another time. Good stuff. Love, daver
Austin Avatar
October 12, 2013 at 9:06 AM
A sort of through the looking glass experience.
12
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