The calm before the storm

There is a calm before the storm

So silent that it catches us unaware

It has been there since the day we were born

Death is in its name, chaos in its stare.

This calm that comes before the storm

Carries his ghost who has gone past

Unrelenting to those who are left to mourn

Leaving the desolate, empty at last.

We all tread our paths before the storm

Some paths do cross, others go by

We find friends for comfort and warmth

While we grieve and ask the fates why?

There is a calm that comes before the storm

Like a chill that settles on the darkened land

Like scattered birds we wander about forlorn

Sorrow is final, but together we stand.

Finally the storm breaks and down comes the rain

I find the tears on my face but the smile remains

I find a new strength, a new reason to recall.

I remember my friend, his name was Paul.

I wrote this in the fall of 1988. I was so young then and had just lost someone I was sure was going to be my best friend.