Respect

Seen less and less

It was if he knew, understood,
my wanting for life to pause,
to be put on hold,
so that all could grieve with me,
feel the sadness that ached my heart,
understand the loss of someone that asked nothing
but gave everything without hesitation, everything...
So, as we passed him,
a cortege of black, slow moving sadness
he stopped, removed his battered cap,
stood stock still and bowed down his head.
Such an ordinary act, but not so in today's world,
brought tears to my eyes,
yet at the same time a smile to my lips.
Dad too would have smiled, nodded politely,
a gentleman to gentleman show of respect.

Reviews

[jacob erin-cilberto]

I still try to hold to those virtues of love and respect for others.
Not always easy but usually appreciated by those less fortunate.
j.

[redzone]

It's a beautiful poem, Gee. Made me feel like there is still goodness in this world of horrors. I tip my hat, bow my head to you and this poem. Thanks for sharing.
-Curt

[Chris Shaw]

Hello Gee. The greatest generation had respect and manners by the bucket load. Sadly flown out of the window these days. I can relate to your scenario. Same happened when we were accompanying my grandmother to her funeral. The stopping, standing to attention and paying respects, My grandmother would have loved it too. You brought some memiries back. Just off to enjoy the sunshine. Have a great day.

[Gee]

Hi Christine, thanks.
As you were reviewing I was editing, hopefully for the better.
Have a great day. I'm stripping tiles off bathroom walls😩