Tribute to my Mentor

This is a tribute to the memory of Janice Sommese--the main reason I am a writer. She was the one who noticed my flair and encouraged me to pursue and refine it. Without her, there would be no books, and I doubt I would have gone far with my poetry.

She was one of the few people who truly understood me and one of the very few I could depend on and be myself around. While I know that she is with the Lord, gabbing with Him and telling jokes, her passing has left a hole in me that will take time to refill. From now on, whenever I type a composition, it will be to her memory, and the next hymn and book I write will be dedicated to her.

Ms. Sommese, if you can hear me, I'll always love you.

I wrote this poem to you. I hope you like it.

It torments me to say goodbye

My confidant, my stout ally

I yearn for your wisdom, steadfast and wry

One more time.

I miss our talks about teenage years

Your spicy car, my callous peers

I'd cherish your comfort through my tears

One more time.

On dreary days of deep distress

You gave me hope with your finesse

If only I could feel your kind largess

One more time.

Oh, what I'd give, with so much glee

To analyze fiction and philosophy

Over galumpkis, fried ice cream, and oolong tea

One more time.

To hear your passions, well-endowed

And welcome the stranger in a crowd

And tell me how I've made your proud

One more time.

I know you need your much-earned rest

I know the Father knows what's best

Your memory will bring me peace

All the time.