Vietnam Vet befriends an immigrant in Pittsburgh, Pa – ( let’s put it that way )
by Vasil Slavov
Now Ralph is not home.
Now Ralphie is gone.
The Vietnam Vet
with his furry pet.
He bought us a cake
( for God gracious sake )
for me & my wife
to start a new life.
He called me My Lad
& stopped for chit – chat
& told me ‘bout fights
for freedom & rights.
We had time so good
in our own neighborhood,
we raked our leaves
& talked ‘bout our kids.
When the Alzheimer came
he still was the same,
just deep in his eyes
rose blackness in tides.
When I saw him last
his time ran so fast:
“ Whatever you need –
I’m right, ‘cross the street “.
He looked up & smiled –
was chilly outside:
“ Me, Lad, I’m prepared,
So you, don’t get scared .
I had some great years,
no whining, no tears,
I’ve dreamt all my dreams
& and lived wearing jeans.
We built this country tough
with Bible & Love.
You, guys, do your best,
take care of the rest “.
He patted my shoulder,
I felt slightly older,
we strolled for a while,
the dog, me and his smile.
I walked Ralphie home.
Next day he was gone.
My friend with the pet.
The Vietnam Vet.
—————
The End
And that’s the End of the Poem
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