The Final Mile

I'm just back from a journey,
we each will take in turn.
Though not long in length
it took all my strength,
but I knew that I'd return...
My companion on this journey
struggled on the way.
No time left to mend,
he knew...in the end,
that he was meant to stay.
We rested just a moment
and much to my surprise,
I saw an image of myself
reflecting in his eyes.
I tried to make him understand
I had a hand to lend, but
he looked away and focused on
the light at distance end...
Though all will make this journey
we know not when or how.
When he felt the final touch of time
he knew his time - was now.
He shook my hand
then smiled and said,
"We're only here awhile."
I stood behind my father 
as he walked his final mile...

Cole Banner
Copyright © 2021

Copyright © | Year Posted 2021



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Date: 1/5/2022 8:34:00 AM
Excellent phrasing so as to create the desired rhyme and rhythm. Congratulations!
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Cole Banner
Date: 1/27/2022 7:24:00 AM
Thanks so much! Always nice when others see merit in my work...
Date: 1/2/2022 3:42:00 AM
Hi Cole. I actually read this three times. On my first read I thought it may end with the 'companion' you mention actually being yourself but you ended the poem beautifully on a very poignant note. Congratulations on your deserved win in Brian's contest.
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Cole Banner
Date: 1/27/2022 7:25:00 AM
Thank you. Glad you enjoyed this one...
Date: 1/2/2022 2:43:00 AM
Great work! Congratulations!
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Cole Banner
Date: 1/27/2022 7:25:00 AM
Thanks so much!
Date: 12/7/2021 9:13:00 AM
Outstanding. Heartfelt. Always write from the heart. That is where the best poetry comes from. Thank you for sharing Cole, Carol
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Cole Banner
Date: 12/7/2021 12:00:00 PM
Thank you. Though Dad walked that final mile recently, I think he would have liked this poem...
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