THE ANGUISH OF IT ALL
A tree stood tall in the forest,
storms came through,
breaking small limbs,
tossing leaves and brittle nests,
yet the tree held fast,
years passed,
it continued to offer safe haven
for birds, nourishment for the soil,
shade for the forest ferns,
ever growing, ever giving,
it didn’t know it would fall,
Alex Pretti spent his life growing
into his humanity,
nursing others to health,
providing strength through his words,
example through his actions,
even when the world was bleak,
even then leaning in
while others turned away,
he bent but didn’t break,
he didn’t know he would fall
when he was there to be strong
against a torrent of misery in his city,
Woe the anguish of it all
for one who stood so tall.
Just Poetry and Prose 
The best tribute to this hero, and the strongest words that capture my feelings.
The last two lines, “Woe the anguish of it all / for one who stood so tall” are etched in my memory. — JG
Thank you. Another great loss.
what a powerful poem!
Thank you.
👍 thanks Rita
Norton, it’s good to hear from you. Hard times in the world. Our cardinal sculptures look beautiful against the snow we’ve had of late. Sending good wishes to you!