MY FRIEND CLEO

I said – don’t be afraid
The plans have already been made
She gave to me that look of sly
Enough to make me cry
I don’t like it there
And never have except
Of course my children
They have kept me alive
There in Cincinnati 

Look for things to do
You could always go to the zoo
I live in one she grinned
Now I suppose I’ve sinned
You’ve always been a straight shooter
Her look couldn’t have been cuter
You know the jive; you’re still alive
Show your brass; kick some ass

The Spirit will keep you standing
She had the look; you know the look
When she said I know a few who need kicking
She brought the flowers
The sunshine and the storm
Her disposition altered from
A light rain to lightning and thunder
Then her laugh brought her back
And she came with the sunshine and flowers

Truth did not elude her; the score
Was known before someone spoke it
She managed her battles with no regrets
Put on the right face when fate was imminent
When death took her mate she endured
Carried on – she was still the mother
Not only to her children, but
To all who knew and loved her

I said – don’t be afraid
The plans have already been made
Then angels came and made their claim
We wonder if it will ever be the same
It will take courage to lay down and rest
It will take courage to do our very best
Life will go on; we’ll sing our song
And quietly listen for her infectious laugh

By Steve Haarman aka Stanski
May 19, 2021 ^