For Chris DeGarmo

The summer tour was brief
more fleeting, now, in retrospect
a sudden, precious solar burst
of music raining down
enriched our lives
then stole your customary presence
intertwined with ours
and disappeared into an unfamiliar land.

Soon gusty, autumn winds sent scattered leaves
across a quiet world
we went about our lives
securely wrapped in confidence
our cozy, symbiotic pact remained inviolate
but winter's icy pall brought chilling news
you'd left without farewell.

A mourning blanket wove itself through disbelief
each thread a disappointed cry
its colors testimonials
collective reminiscing, stories told
of thrilling songs, performances
and chance encounters with a man
whose humble smile, sweet gentleness and quiet dignity
enliven memories that warm our hearts.

So, Chris, whatever path you choose
we wish for you
a life of grand fulfillment
from the private hallways of your soul
to stunning, panoramic vistas
in the distant borders of your dreams
that beckon to a land
where knowledge and enlightenment are yours to take
and leaping boldly forward,
may you grab the answers sought
by questing minds, arriving safely home
your new-found treasures bursting to be shared.

We hope that springtime finds you dancing happily
in sparkling rain, your songs
bright, newborn blossoms sprouting forth
infused with wisdom won from journeys past
professing hope for journeys yet to be
and when you gaze into an audience
no matter where the stage
some old, familiar faces will be smiling back
you always treated us with kind respect
so we'll be there for you.

Copyright ©Natasha Weaver