I have a brother far, far away.

With wife and child welded as one.

I only wish that we could see

more of them now and then.

 

The years have passed so quickly

and our paths so seldom cross.

That even when we meet to speak

the spontaneity that used to be

has gone replaced by words,

that say not what they mean.

 

I’ve always loved my brother Chris.

And though at times, like cat and dog,

we fought for reasons long forgot,

my love is still as strong.

 

So do not shut your minds to us,

who live across another land.

Things are not what they may seem to be,

and very seldom are.

 

There is no blame for fates like ours

where life has torn us far apart.

So do not let our love grow cold

for want of letters or the phone.

I promise to do my part.

 

 

David Garlick, Victoria, 1986

 

(Written as an apology , not for forgetting you birthday, which I didn’t but for failing to take time out to tell you that, I love you.)