My old friend by Adam Shand

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.