I begin to dial your home
Only to recall
“This number is no longer in service.”

You’ve been gone seventeen years
Yet, just now
I felt your presence.

“What would Dad make of this?”
I asked the blue sky
And heard back
“Harl would have been beneficently puzzled.”

Such a warm smile.

You didn’t leave me money
or tchotchkes
Your legacy was character:
Treat people as you want to be treated
Tell the truth
Work hard, show up on time, pay attention, keep your commitments
(Above all) don’t give up
If it doesn’t work the first time, sleep on it, and try again in the morning
Don’t be afraid to change
A smile is more effective than a fist.

A fitting legacy
For a good man.