John a drinking friend

To John

A watery autumn sun shone on your home
Removed these past three years from all our eyes
Whispered memories of winter tales
Each one full of living, life and fun

I wanted to hear that belly-laugh that savoured life
The latest plan to fill your leisure hours
I had to come, to touch the past
There's a horseshoe missing in Copley now

All our chat and not a word of gossip
Least that which can be so 'village cruel'
Some fell silent, scowling at the strangers face
But you John, you just smiled and with words embraced

Before your village home, cattle quietly graze
How many know it was once a pit
Fit for nothing, were only meagre weeds could grow
Your mighty machines caressed the soil
And left a lasting memory anonymous, but definitely you.

To John Lynsley

Never forgotten