Blue Sky Departures

I sobbed I cried at news you'd died Was more a launch exploding, heart Somehow disaster on my part! Though capsule's ashes stain the ground, The goals you dreamt of, live, profound. They blast off, fly beyond the moon, Such wonders, Bill, (1) can't come too soon! God grace if man can reach the stars, First baby steps, the moon, then mars! Apollo's contrails are the rails, Men ride to space now, flying south, Beyond all words, the poet's mouth Is strangely silent. I don't mind Sky's twinkling mask that's left behind Space telescopes, at last, see clear Both what is far and what is near. Old dreams be damned, there's much to see, New depths expand reality! My dream today? There’s much to say, Time’s saved for us in some new place, This life has never been a race, Our dreams don’t cease? I don’t pretend, I dream we’ll meet again my friend! You’re dear, though pillars of Apollo fade, God’s light and ours serve death to shade! Can phantoms live if life still dreams, Of poetry, and children’s schemes. Brian Johnston 18th of June in 2019 Poet’s Notes: A poem in memory of Bill Hayes who shifted planes on Saturday June 15, 2019. I wish you both new fellowship and a safe journey my oldest new friend! (1) Bill Hayes was instrumental in the launch of many of the Apollo missions from Cape Canaveral!