Love Poem: Ode For Chris
Carolyn Devonshire Avatar
Written by: Carolyn Devonshire

Ode For Chris

You will never fade from my heart, dear friend
Though my words to you are now heaven sent
For eighteen years you brought joy to my life
And so many times you erased my strife

When the world outside seemed so harsh and mean
You wiped my slate clean, changed the scene
Showed me that love could exist without pain
Or sexual desires, personal gain

Together we clung as a sweet friend died
You offered love as she suffered and cried
The peace you added to her life I shared
Because I had someone who truly cared

Just wanted to make things right for others
You were my soul mate, my spiritual brother
You came to me when you learned you’d soon die
I held you so close; in my arms you cried

But it wasn’t for yourself these tears were shed
You worried for me, hanging by a thread
I watched you pass from this world to the next
In your last hours you said you felt blessed

Your faith was so strong that you had no fear
Your belief in eternal life was clear
I look to the skies now, call out your name
And in my life you will always remain

A beacon of hope that still casts its light
Your presence surrounds me, its force so bright
I’m so grateful you saw something in me
That made you my friend for eternity


*Entry for the Ode to a Friend contest
Dedicated to Chris Codd, my dear friend who died Christmas Day, 2005