Luke
Gersham Rainone

I can remember it, as clear as day
The first time he ever walked my way.
A smile, a story, and some really good jokes—
Happiness that only true friendship evokes.
We talked about dreams, our lives and wishes
His were the big leagues, hitting fast pitches.
Mine were of science, the helm of discovery.
He told me how amazing of a doctor I could be.
He was someone that would light up a room,
Would make you smile, no matter your mood.
Caring and kind, he’d give the shirt off his back
For nothing in return, not even a snack

I can remember it, clear as day
He came back from the doctor with something to say.
He was tired and weak, always getting sick
And just kept bleeding from the slightest knick.
He was courageous, much braver than I
He took this head on, no word of a lie.
He beat it back, all the way to remission,
Just the way we had all envisioned
He fought so hard, he knew he could beat it.
He stood high on a mountain and said “I won’t be defeated.”
I was inspired, and from then on I knew,
That becoming a doctor is what I would do.

I can remember it, clear as day
The sky was lifeless, the darkest gray.
I sat in my white coat feeling so helpless
And the pain in my heart was truly endless.
The way that he said “my friend, it’s back”
Brought me to tears, it was a lot to unpack.
He told me this time it did not look so good
And he wanted me there, that I understood.
I sat there in sadness, as breath became air
He looked at me with a smile and said “have nothing to fear.”
On that fateful day, praises of life were sung
It’s true what they say—
Only the good die young