Ms. Rucker

When I was a child I was frightened by your legacy,
Already well established your pose and confidence commanded respect,
At first my older siblings told the tales of your magnificence,
Cautiously I yearned for the day when I could share their awe,

When I was a teen you became more human but what a grand lady,
That wonderful voice so full of the wonders that await those who try,
That elegant gait that consumed the halls as you purveyed and approved with a sly smile,
Effortlessly I accepted that day when you made me feel awed,

When I was man I was amazed at the depth of your conviction, compassion and concern,
Although our encounters were fleeting and brief, I felt that you knew me well and deep,
The calendar yelled aged but the lady still had that voice that gait and that sly smile,
Hopefully I related in some form or way that I was awed,

When I was a grandfather I envied your longevity,
It’s mostly memories now of your poise and confidence, command and respect,
Sadly it’s been many years since I’ve experienced that voice that gait and that sly smile,
Got a sad phone call today, I just sat there in awe.