Remember Him When

Who stole his smile, leaving nothing in its wake?

What stroke of adversity curved his shoulders?

How many tears must he have swallowed

to develop that bubble in his throat?

Who remembers him when?

When did the twinkle become a tear?

The shuffle replace his stride?

How many did it take to subdue his heart,

and ice the fires left behind?

Do they remember him when?

Does anyone relish the words he spoke?

Will they carry his wisdom forward?

Will the world mourn his absence,

or callously cast off the burden?

Will anyone remember him when?

Sandy Knauer