Classmate

A former classmate of my son’s,
A writer with success,
Not long ago gave in to demons
He could not suppress.

Just thirty-two years old, he was,
With wife and son of two,
He climbed up to the roof and jumped,
A desperate thing to do.

I’d heard about it, but today
I saw The Times obit;
His image in the paper
Somehow made it more legit.

How sad for all his family,
For his friends, his son, his wife,
To lose someone who had so much
To live for in his life.

We may lose touch with classmates,
Even those we once called friend,
Yet still it’s hard to hear of one
With such a tragic end.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2014

Poem

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Lamoureux Avatar
January 16, 2014 at 5:53 PM
A very sad event, sorry for your loss. Depression and mental illness effect so many people.
Dietrich Avatar
January 14, 2014 at 12:49 AM
I know this sounds callous, but I find it even sadder, knowing how so many of us do not find great success in our lives or our writing. To have success AND a family that loves you. What a waste to throw it all away. Good one, Ilene. I am so thankful for all that I have. I sure hope I would never want to do such a thing, but I guess some people are wired differently and they cannot help it.
Johnson Avatar
January 13, 2014 at 5:54 AM
I'm trying to find my words carefully here. Those damn demons. Let us Pray. Amen. Peace. :)
Mehta Avatar
January 12, 2014 at 9:18 PM
Very tragic tale and a nice tribute, ilene
Manassian Avatar
January 12, 2014 at 8:13 PM
Yes, my dear Ilene. It happens. Been close to the edge myself.....who can understand these things. So many factors involved.....tragic....for those left behind. Hugs
Wilson Avatar
January 12, 2014 at 7:09 PM
Oh my so sad..what a great loss and you wrote about it with a good heart..luv,Deb
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