I wrote this poem to and for my sister as I realized she 
would not overcome cancer.  Today is the anniversary of her
birth.  I had wrote passing.  I am grateful that she is out of pain.
I miss her more than my words can hope to say.  Maybe that's
why I can't quite find the words for a poem for her so far
today.  So.. I'm sharing what I wrote then. Sorry for the error. 

For Michele
by Michael Romani

Longer than I remember
You have always been near
I know I will always remember
Sweet memories I will always hold dear
As we grew up, you were more to me
Than my older sister, you were my best friend
It's so easy to get lost in sad sentimentality
As I watch you bravely approach your end
My heart screams out, it should be me
Praying to the Lord, I enter my plea
 
It was you who taught me so many things
Like how to be brave and how to tie my shoes
Not eat flowers and how a bee stings
How to ride horses and how to love the blues
I was the little brother who always drove you crazy
And yet somehow you always loved me
We jumped off roofs and climbed old trees
Explored the world and swam the seven seas
Adventures we shared as we loved and cared
Dreaming our dreams, living them as we dared
 
Do you remember the duck at Hillcrest
That algae filled pond almost took my life
But, I'd do it again, because you are the best
I won't lie and say we never had strife
But I will admit that you were usually right
I know I have never told you that before
I guess I was too busy, always trying to steal the light
But, you my sister, is who I always adored
In our lives, so many questions have filled my mind
And it has often been your listening ear that I needed to find

I want you to know something quite sincere
You have always been my biggest hero
Maybe I haven't always made that clear
But truly, you are my hero
From start to finish, from finish to start
The lessons you have taught me so well
From the depths of your mind to the deep of your heart
Have left their indelible mark on me as I've cherished your tale
Your nieces will know you by your mark on me
I had always wanted you to meet them, but it's not to be

(c) June 26, 2014 Michael Romani
All Rights Reserved

https://flic.kr/p/q7PQf1