The Marathon Man

I had a friend who was to me the very best a friend can be, so loyal, warm and humorous, a Cornish Celt to truly trust. I see him now with smiling face, so strong and fit to win the race, the problems in our working days diminished by his winning ways. An educator, kind and caring, valued knowledge always sharing with all his students, most who knew here was a teacher fair and true. His talent was to harmonize some fun and knowledge in their eyes, humanity and Science combined within his teaching, firm but kind. And to his colleagues straight and true, courageously expressed his view. his pride of birth-right without rant or bigoted degrading cant Accepted without prejudice what lesser men turn into vice. so many warmed towards this man, enchanted by the charm he span And partnered by his loving wife he welcomed friends into his life. their table had the best of fare for this man had a talent rare, His cooking skills so finely honed that many a chef could be dethroned so proud my wife and I would be when welcomed to their sanctuary. Through working days a course we ran deriving strength to carry on, his wise words guided me to see the best time when we both broke free Work routine however worthy never matching freedom’s journey, Both found ourselves two new careers though did not have close friendships cheer. Then circumstances and neglect reduced our contact and respect and though we met from time to time our friendship suffered a decline I never thought the steps of time approaching swiftly from behind would overtake him in life’s race and sickness claimed such strength and grace. I'm one of many, this I know, and not alone to miss him so, but I've no faith to ease the strife with promises of afterlife. Of him past memories all that’s left now I am of my friend bereft with life a sadder, bleaker place never again to see his face.