Dedicated to Bill Crandall, who made me believe again.

Silent, long have I been
But forgotten I have not
I still feel you close by
Whispering wisdom to naught.
Reasons there are aplenty,
For the predicaments of time
Reasons known to you alone
To be revealed at nigh.
In you I continue to trust,
Thus far I’ve not been led astray
Momentary this feeling of pain is
A moment that will soon wash away.
Through this crucible I must pass
To emerge stronger beyond
Every nerve been tested thus
Closer I get to striking the gong.
But now your words have landed,
I will pay them good heed,
I will continue down this path hence
Until my inhibitions have been freed.
