One Last Time
I had known and interacted with him for at least twenty years. It would be great if I could remember the first time I met him, but I shall never forget the LAST time I looked into his eyes.
He was a staff pastor at our church with multiple assignments. Never have I met anyone more dedicated to his ministry.
We were happy when he consented to take some extra time off. At first, it was announced that he would be on a 30-day sabbatical, but I'm not sure if anyone knew that his sabbatical would be interrupted. During that period, he had a medical appointment that proved very negative. Following that appointment, another announcement was made of his condition. He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer that was of the none-treatable variety. He was given a short time to live and we all took it very hard.
It was decided that our church would have a celebration of his life before his demise. There were many people at the amazing service, but I was able to make eye contact with him and his family. I thought that was the closest I would come to saying goodbye to our beloved pastor. However, as I was driving out of the parking lot, I spotted him in his daughter's car engaged with others. I knew that this moment with him alive might be my LAST. So I stopped, and exiting my vehicle, I proceeded quickly and stooped my head through the window while he was speaking with someone else. I kissed him on the forehead and slowly walked away, sadly. That was the LAST time I touched him, the LAST time I saw him alive, but that affectionate moment will last a lifetime.
11272018PoSoupContest, The Last, Silent One; 2P
Copyright © Curtis Johnson | Year Posted 2018
Post Comments
Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.
Please
Login
to post a comment