Epitaph of An Old Friend, An Honorable Man

Epitaph Of An Old Friend, An Honorable Man He wore not great riches nor riding cloak, Yet stood tall and regal as mighty oak, No drops of greedy sweat fell from his brow, worldly wealth was to him no sacred cow: His enemies found he knew not retreat Yet he was a pleasant fellow to meet He had an inner force, massive power Stood against world, like a castle tower. As mighty oak he withstood stormy winds Found joy with his neighbors and dearest friends His home a castle without guarding moat Man of letters, he with inner soul wrote: Poetry and songs devised to bring cheer Whether home or at taverns drinking beer His oath, vowing to treat one and all fair A gentle man, yet cross him few would dare. Had you known him and his honor so true, Fairly he would take the measure of you, If found worthy, happily shake your hand, Let you hunt on his grandfather's wild lands: Be a trusty friend, should you ask for more From his table, his wines so freely pour Full of vigor, to the needy he gave Many a poor family did he save. He wore not great riches nor riding cloak, Yet stood tall and regal as mighty oak, No drops of greedy sweat fell from his brow, worldly wealth was to him no sacred cow: His enemies found he knew not retreat Yet he was a pleasant fellow to meet He had an inner force, massive power Stood against world, like a castle tower. Robert J. Lindley, 8-15-2018 Rhyme, ( The Epitaph Of A Dearly Departed Friend )