Toast

When Ray arrived we paused,

Raised our glasses,

Saluted Oscar,

Then dealt the next hand.

I remember all those people

With tributes to Oscar;

His grace, wit and humanity.

A very good man.

Eight guys socializing around a poker table.

It’s a no-harm game,

Chances are the big winner 

Will clear enough to cover gas cost to get here.

I don’t see these guys during the month,

But for the next three and a half hours

Tiny truths, safe and respectful,

Offered as humor, float over us.

Did I mention Oscar had a great voice,

Resonant and mellow?

Here’s to you, my man.

You wont know this tribute, but I’ll remember.