his hugs were like vice-grips…

wanted something…heard…listened to…take your time…take your time…

voice muffled ‘tween tears…quiet yells…opened mouth…spit stretched…nothing said…nothing…shhh…it’s O.K. …it’s O.K. …

loving…giving…kind…a temper…could you blame him…could you…

slow paces with walker…helmet worn…strap fastened… face of bruises…teeth ajar…no more beautiful sight…

had a minister tell me once, “Christ commands us to love the unlovely…like your kid brother…”

no sir…no… Jesus was referring to you…