Do I need to say out loud
That you are the closest
I ever came to my person
If only you didn't
Have so many already

A brilliant and kind friend
Is worth more than
A golden ring inset
With diamonds marking
Decades of compromise 

The most memorable and moving stories
May be untranslatable
Missed by your average listener 
Unless they can read body language

Since the unspeakable time
One in 100 year devastation 
I grow accustomed to sitting
In a crowded room surrounded by
Empty seats of friends 
I've never forgotten

An artist captures the essence of my heartache
Blue china bathed statue
Raving about earl gray
Other pleasantries
In politest company