Remembering Leo Poem by Liilia Talts Morrison

n all his earthly stumblings
he always bobbed right up
fought off all blows of fortune
and vicious demon hounds

He did not fret or worry
when all around fell down
some angel must have watched him
and oft worked overtime

He did not miss the humor
in ways of humankind
took on all dares presented
and scoffed at caution's cares

He did not notice putdowns
he looked at stars instead
and whether fat or hungry
he never sought for bread

He did not care if persons
were old or young or crude
he did not rehash old ways
he lived just for the day

He fought for hopeless causes
when wiser men withdrew
and often stopped for pauses
to help someone get through

He never said I love you
sweet talk was not his game
he showed his love with actions
and faithfulness of heart

He would not smile by custom
nor did he make small talk
nor utter pleasing phrases
he always walked the walk

Some thought of him as foolish
for following a star
that did not fill the coffer
or bring the praise of men

He fought with driven passion
for underdogs and strays
nor would he join the circles
of secrets and foul play

Yet there were those who loved him
when all was said and done
and of that little handful
I'm glad that I was one.