Passing the Torch

February 11, 2020

(For Mardy)

You held the torch aloft
Showing people to the other end
Guiding them through the tunnel
Over every hill and every bend

I came through many times
You remembered me and said hi
We exchanged kind words
We didn't need a reason why

One day there was a lot to do
I stopped by instead of staying in bed
You held out your torch to me
Then you called me over and said

“Keep an eye on things for me”
So I took the torch and turned away
Not sure if I could follow through
I turned back with something to say

But you weren't there anymore
You're gone, and you won't be back
The torch is now mine to hold
Memories are all I've got for my pack

That last memory of your words
A request, not a demand
I'll follow it, cos it's all I've got
That, and this old torch in my hand