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Open Poetry #42
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Balladeer
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since 1999-06-05
Posts 25505
Ft. Lauderdale, Fl USA

0 posted 2008-01-25 06:17 PM


My apologies to newer members who may not understand some of the references mentioned here but there is a rich history among many of the older members here and this poem represents one of those times. As the site moves along, friendships are formed and memories are made and everyone has the opportunity to create and share these friendships and experiences, which is, by far, the greatest asset of this wonderful place.
.


It was just a little restaurant, like many I have seen
And eaten at so many times before,
A friendly little place to bite the biscuit, sip the bean
While listening to the waves fall on the shore.

This gathering was different, though, than others I had known.
It was the first for all those there, you see
The first time that we met (without computer or a phone)
Those we had come to know at P.I.P.

The meter queen, Liz Santos, sat beside me on that day,
Whose verse had held me spellbound on the site
And there she was! I must confess I knew not what to say
To let her know her words held such delight.

Next to her sat Ms. Hoot Owl. Do you want to speak of class?
You'll never find another girl with more
And I found out much later she can really move quite fast!
To this day I have muscles that are sore.

Across from me was Kit McCallum, my poetic twin
Collaborator of the first degree.
She never knew the strong emotions that I felt within
To see here sitting there across from me.

Isabel was at her right, Sy's wife of many years
I always did my best to give her hell.
The truth is, through the insults and the wisecracks and the jeers
I loved the gal - (but don't tell Isabel!)

Then next to her, the leader of this motley group, dean Nan
She organized this gathering that day.
For one whole week, we had a blast which she had neatly planned
And did it in a very Falmouth way!

There. at the table's head, sat Sy, the patriarch of all,
King Seymour with his air of gallantry,
A small man who could make you swear that he was ten feet tall
Bypresence he projected naturally.

The years have passed, time moves along, we go our separate ways
Such is the way of life here on this earth
But memories of special times will never fade but stays
And loses no iota of it's worth.

On Sunday we will bury Sy. His time on Earth is through.
I'll never hear his laugh again - yet, still...
He sat there at the table head like only Sy could do
And, in my heart, my good friend always will.





© Copyright 2008 Michael Mack - All Rights Reserved
Clang
Member
since 2005-12-15
Posts 222

1 posted 2008-01-25 06:23 PM


This is really beautiful.  I am sorry for the loss of such a dear friend.
Margherita
Member Seraphic
since 2003-02-08
Posts 22236
Eternity
2 posted 2008-01-25 06:28 PM


quote:

There. at the table's head, sat Sy, the patriarch of all,
King Seymour with his air of gallantry,
A small man who could make you swear that he was ten feet tall
By presence he projected naturally.



Wonderful verse and memories!! Thank you dear Balladeer for sharing this.

Enjoyed in tears and smiles.

love
Margherita

Nan
Administrator
Member Seraphic
since 1999-05-20
Posts 21191
Cape Cod Massachusetts USA
3 posted 2008-01-25 06:44 PM


...I hear him laughing, Mike..

TomMark
Member Elite
since 2007-07-27
Posts 2133
LA,CA
4 posted 2008-01-25 06:45 PM


Beautiful. beautiful.
love to you all.
Sir Balladeer, this is great!!!!


Marsha
Deputy Moderator 1 Tour
Member Rara Avis
since 2000-07-10
Posts 7423
Maidstone Kent England
5 posted 2008-01-25 07:14 PM


'Deer I've just heard the news and came to pay my respects to one of lifes' true gentlemen, he will be saddly missed.

Your poem is a delight and brought the memories flooding back to me of our gathering in New Port Richie. Remembering you and Sy putting the Barbeque together made me smile. Thank you for the gift darling man, I needed that, you always did have the knack of painting the scene so accurately.

love and warm stuff
as always
Mushy
x x x x

Tomorrow is another day I don't know what it holds
but I can face the future with courage brave and bold

Footprints In My Heart
Kethry

Ceinwyn
Member Elite
since 2000-07-09
Posts 2175
VA
6 posted 2008-01-25 09:12 PM


If at first you don't succeed destroy all the evidence that you tried.

Kit McCallum
Administrator
Member Laureate
since 2000-04-30
Posts 14774
Ontario, Canada
7 posted 2008-01-25 09:23 PM


Michael, you have made me smile. Although it is so sad to have lost Sy ... the memories of that week are with us always.

The friendship I have seen between you and Sy was truly one that is to be admired. Friendships that come so easily and so naturally are gifts that come to us rarely. You and Sy were blessed with that comfortable kind of ease that comes from trust, and genuine hearts.

I am so grateful for that trip together ... I am so grateful for Sy's friendship, for your friendship, and for the friendship and love of so many here at Passions. This is a home like no other ... and one I can say has blessed me with friends for a lifetime. Sy was a big part of that, and always will remain as such in my memories.



Best wishes and many hugs to you my partner in rhyme,
/Kit

Mysteria
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since 2001-03-07
Posts 18328
British Columbia, Canada
8 posted 2008-01-25 10:36 PM


Beautiful memory and poem Michael,   I took that picture and I will carry it in my heart always.  This is my fondest memory, the day we all spent at Martha's Vineyard together.  I laughed as I had a hard time keeping up with Sy and Isabel.           

I will carry a bit of Sy's wisdom with me always, and when I need a "fix," I can always go to the archives and surround our dear friend with love.

iliana
Member Patricius
since 2003-12-05
Posts 13434
USA
9 posted 2008-01-25 11:50 PM


I can't imagine anyone here who hasn't in some way been touched by the magic that was and is Sy.  Thanks, Mike, for sharing your magic moment with us....and yes, he has always felt like a gentle giant to me, too.  He will be sorely missed here.  It is a phenominal thing how close we can become to another soul through the sharing of words.  
latearrival
Member Ascendant
since 2003-03-21
Posts 5499
Florida
10 posted 2008-01-26 12:03 PM


Mike I love it. You are terrific. Sharing photos and memories in poem with the rest of us who have not met you all in person, just reaffirms that we are family."late"
Roniece Dawson-Bruce
Member Ascendant
since 2000-01-29
Posts 5689
Sydney, Australia
11 posted 2008-01-26 12:16 PM


thank you for sharing such wonderful memories of our Sir Sy... I loved his beautiful words..he always made me smile.. thinking of his family in this sad time... love RDB

Be kind at heart....for everyone you meet has their own battle to fight.........

aziza
Member Elite
since 2006-07-09
Posts 2995
Lumpy Oatmeal makes me Crazy!
12 posted 2008-01-26 02:57 AM


Michael,

I saved your poem for last because I knew it would reduce me to tears and it has.

I know that many of you share a strong bond that comes from years of being friends - the archives really tell the tale of P.I.P.

And what the words posted don't tell, one can pick up in the undercurrent of caring, emotions and love that you have for each other.  There is deep respect on these boards - and there is true kindness for those who come along more recently.

Your poem tells a lot about Seymour Tabin - and all of you.  I am thankful I got to spend a little time with Sy on the boards here -- and I am thankful that I get to read your words and the words of those you mention in this poem.

It is a sad time, but in sadness we sometimes remember to say what we often have thought and never said.  You have made me smile - and think - and laugh out loud.  Tonight you make me wipe tears from my cheeks .. and I think what a special man you are too.

Alison

Assassin_of_Verse
Member
since 2007-10-23
Posts 330
that So Cal
13 posted 2008-01-26 03:02 AM


Reading this made me think, "Will I be able to write about my friends many years later?" Thank you for sharing this.

We are each of us angels with only one wing. And we can only fly by embracing each other.
-Luciano De Creshenzo

An assassin-in-training shouldn't.

Earth Angel
Member Empyrean
since 2002-08-27
Posts 40215
Realms of Light
14 posted 2008-01-26 04:02 AM


Moments to cherish! You all look so happy ~ especially Seymour. Yes, it was fitting for the king among men to sit at the head of the table ~ and you should have sat right across from him at the other head!

I am sorry for your loss as well. I know that you were personal, as well as 'Sy-ber', friends.

Love & Everlasting Light ~ and friendships,

Linda

Titia Geertman
Member Ascendant
since 2001-05-07
Posts 5182
Netherlands
15 posted 2008-01-26 04:42 AM


Your wonderful way of telling a tale,
made me long for the days I met Sy
New Port Richie, I will never forget
and now in silence I'll cry


Thank you Michael for your beautiful words to which I can so relate. Please tell Isabel tomorrow I'll be thinking of her.
Titia

Like scattered leaves...my words will flow

Toerag
Member Ascendant
since 1999-07-29
Posts 5622
Ala bam a
16 posted 2008-01-26 10:38 AM


Some are lost for words at times like these....but, Balladeer can take things from his heart and make everyone feel the thoughts he expresses...whether it be in humor or loss or love.....or ragging me...
Midnitesun
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Posts 28647
Gaia
17 posted 2008-01-26 10:53 AM


Sniffling here, and wishing I had been able to meet with all of you for a poet gathering while Sy was still here in body. He will remain here, in our hearts and souls, for he truly touched each of us as individuals with his incredibly unique gift of unconditional acceptance and love.
Thank you Michael, and all others who shared  their memories of this wonderful poet and outstanding human.

Marge Tindal
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Member Empyrean
since 1999-11-06
Posts 42384
Florida's Foreverly Shores
18 posted 2008-01-26 11:17 AM



Such treasured memories~
*Huglets*
~*Marge*~

~*The sound of a kiss is not as strong as that of a cannon, but it's echo endures much longer*~
Email -       noles1@totcon.com     

Misty Lilacs
Senior Member
since 2005-11-15
Posts 1060
White Birch Forest
19 posted 2008-01-26 12:10 PM


He was such a wonderful gift
to so many here at PiP!

Michael, thank you for your
heart wrenching words. May
everyone who knew him keep
his memory alive in their
hearts.

Blessings upon you Sy

luv and hugs, Marti

hoot_owl_rn
Member Patricius
since 1999-07-05
Posts 10750
Glen Hope, PA USA
20 posted 2008-01-26 01:29 PM


Dear Deer...this brought tears to my eyes (sorry hard to type while crying) What a wonderful time that was and one I will never forget. This loss comes hard, especially to us "old" pipsters who bonded right from the beginning. I for one will miss him dearly as I know you will also.
Ruth

Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354
Listening to every heart
21 posted 2008-01-26 02:02 PM


Even though there were some
who invited, could not come
still you shared the joys through verse
leaving giggles, and lively mirth!

You brought to Pip the photos
and left behind some mottos
that to cheer with poets is such fun
and moments, rare, like this one.

Thank you all, for going beyond
the internet, to share your songs
and for bringing back to PiPland all
stories of a man, ten foot tall.




SmartChick
Member Rara Avis
since 2001-09-23
Posts 7081
On A Journey To The Unknown
22 posted 2008-01-26 08:33 PM


Oh Balladeer, those tears I have been trying to hold back are flowing like a river, now. I am no good at goodbyes.
sewasham
Senior Member
since 2006-09-11
Posts 714
Oklahoma, USA
23 posted 2008-01-27 02:09 AM


A great tribute Mike. I am truly thankful that I had the pleasure of meeting Sy here if only for a short while. I, like many others here will miss his great talent. Take care. Steve


Elizabeth Santos
Member Rara Avis
since 1999-11-08
Posts 9269
Pennsylvania
24 posted 2008-01-27 04:07 AM


You have tugged at my heartstrings with this one, dear poet, and brought back warm memories of that wonderful time on Cape Cod. Your words only serve to illustrate the depth of friendship that abounds on this site. You are all so close to my heart, Thank you, my meter man, for this wonderful tribute
Liz

[This message has been edited by Nan (01-27-2008 10:28 AM).]

ivordavies
Senior Member
since 2007-01-10
Posts 739
Chester, England
25 posted 2008-01-27 05:54 AM


Balladeer,

Have only just looked in and found the sad news, your poetry brings home to us all how much Sy was respected amongst our poet community.

When I came on the site I found things in Sy's work that I loved. Not only a different perspective on style that I had not encountered, but the wisdom and feelings that were born of many 'lifetimes' of experience.

Whilst I am sad at his loss I am sure that he will remain with us forever. I only hope somehow his work can be collated and saved for eternity....

My sincere condolances to his wife, if you are in touch can you let her know of at least one more 'aging' (bodily) old poet who was touched by him and was a better person for it.

Ivor

Roniece Dawson-Bruce
Member Ascendant
since 2000-01-29
Posts 5689
Sydney, Australia
26 posted 2008-01-27 05:58 AM


Ivor... it is a sad time indeed... I for one will miss his lovely smiles on here.. his jovial and beautiful words... love RDB

Be kind at heart....for everyone you meet has their own battle to fight.........

miscellanea
Member Elite
since 2004-06-24
Posts 4060
OH
27 posted 2008-01-27 12:47 PM


Balladeer,

   Thank you for sharing.  I've always felt the warmth this site offers, as well pictured by the family intermingling.  It gives me pleasure to see the love.  The memories you must have!

misce'  

Mysteria
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since 2001-03-07
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British Columbia, Canada
28 posted 2008-01-27 09:54 PM


Just tagging for my library to make the book  - thank you Michael.
secondhanddreampoet
Member Ascendant
since 2006-11-07
Posts 6394
a 'Universalist' !
29 posted 2008-02-03 08:48 PM


This grand-fine tribute 'write' should linger longer near the
top of the 'P.I.P.-land' queue in this newest 'open' forum!

Artic Wind
Member Rara Avis
since 2007-09-16
Posts 8080
Realm of Supernatural
30 posted 2008-02-03 09:05 PM


He will be missed Deeply!

ARCTIC WIND

LeeJ
Member Patricius
since 2003-06-19
Posts 13296

31 posted 2008-02-04 07:36 AM


I don't know if this makes any sense, I feel like I know you all, and yet don't....as I'm a fairly new comer to PIP...and have had the splendid opportunity to meet and share poetry with some of you...

I am missing Sy, and though haven't been able to stop by PIP, very often, of late, did on occassion stop in for morning coffee to read Sy's splendid, vivid and heart felt poetry.  

I miss him, and I can't imagine, how you all feel...bless this heart that adorned these blue pages, his wife, family, friends...and those here who morn him now. My hugs go out to you all.  

I believe each of our paths cross for a reason, and want to only suggest, that we are all a little better for knowing Sy...reading him, was most insightful.

Sending condolances and love to you all
Lee J.

icequeen
Senior Member
since 2001-12-09
Posts 633
FL USA
32 posted 2008-02-05 10:52 PM


Thank you 'Deer, for penning and sharing this with the photo. How beautiful you all are! I have been here at PiP for 9 years now - and though sometimes I disappear for a while, y'all are never out of my mind, nor my heart. I still can't quite believe that my Sir Seymour is gone, but I will hold onto his words forever.

Again, thank you for this. It really shows how a wonderful "poet family" has formed here. We may have an empty chair at the  table, but it really is full of memories....ten feet tall. And as I am full of tears now, I'm going to say goodnight.

Love to All

~Caroline~

JamesMichael
Member Empyrean
since 1999-11-16
Posts 33336
Kapolei, Hawaii, USA
33 posted 2008-02-06 03:33 PM


Wonderful writing and nice memories you have shared...thank you...James
Denise
Moderator
Member Seraphic
since 1999-08-22
Posts 22648

34 posted 2008-02-10 01:21 PM


Thanks for sharing those precious moments with us all again, Michael.

Sy will live on in our hearts.

effjayel
Senior Member
since 2007-09-30
Posts 1474
At the Crossroads of Infinity
35 posted 2008-02-10 01:40 PM


Having only recently joined the Pip family, I was only slightly aware of Sy on the periphery as it were. Since His passing & the moving tributes I have been reading on here I have been looking at some of his work & he was obviousl a gifted, talented (& wise) guy. I can honestly say the warmth and family feel emanating from this site can be felt, and I think he contributed to this. The best tibute to Sy for me therefore, would be to see his work brought "back to the top" occasionally so that newcomers and oldies alike can be reminded of the legacy he left behind....I never had the privilige to know Sy, but I wished I had.....
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