so much was in him
for many years
he was strong
and faithful
to them all
over time he faded
his joints creaked
and ached
but he was brought back
by the ones he loved
in thunderous roar
and cold snowy eve
through hurt
and sadness
he was there
the old man
comforted them
sheltered their
tired bodies
against the world
even when they
were apart
there he was
waiting patiently
for all of them to return
away they go
soon to build
new lives
and dreams
and loves
forever he stands
in their hearts
and memories
for the next
to come to him
his arms open
ready to love them
and keep them safe
from the cold and sadness
the roar and the hurt
j-