The sun beat through the canopy and the
dappled light played upon the cool forest floor.
A little boy sat by rivers edge and dangled his
feet just above.
In his hands was his birthday gift.
A fishing pole with reel and line.
It was from his big brother, it was mighty fine.
From across the world a message sent.
Happy birthday little man, it is not lent,
but yours to keep forever and a day.
I know you'll take care of this gift
given to you with thought and pray.
Shall see you soon little guy to
sit beside the river you and I.
The tears flowed freely from the boys eyes.
For big brother has come home and stands
beside the boy at rivers edge.
The brother bends to touch the lowered head.
But a brush of wind is felt instead.
The little boy stands and picks up his pole.
He walks home to say goodbye to his big brother.
To say farewell one final time.
And this he does as he sits beside his brothers' grave
and says "I love you and always will".