My old friend
You were never one of
my favourite people
too angry
too violent
too unpredictable
even in my youth
it was easy to see
the wounds you carried
the crippling shame
passed down from your father
it’s been decades since we met
the last time you stared blankly at me
without a trace of recognition
this morning i dreamed you had fallen
and a man of god was gently caring
for your battered body and soul
i don’t know where you are today
but i suspect you aren’t that lucky
you are in my heart
and i hope you are well
and i wish you happiness.