Dear River

Dear River,

I sat today along your bank, feet dangling in the cool damp. Playful fishes nibbled at my toes, causing my tendons to clamp. When I seek solace from ills or just simple solitude I come to you, knowing that your softly babbling conversation my troubles will soothe.

Always you offer quiet company, relaxation, and maybe even a meal if I happen to bring a hook. You never mind if I ignore your presence to get lost in a book. You listen to my every thought, good or bad, without judging. Even when I vent my frustration and anger at life, you are never begrudging.

I apologize for the rock I skipped off of you earlier. I hope it didn't hurt. I guess when it sank beneath the ripples I knew you weren't a worrier. By the way, thank you for the lovely autumn leaf you brought to me. It was a nice shade of green and red and was a joy to see. I shall press it within the pages of a book so that each remaining day upon it's loveliness I may look.

I can doze next to you, slumbering peacefully, forgetting about this ticking bomb in which I reside. Beneath the willow along your shore my psyche can hide.

Within your caress I can immerse myself as I can with no other. You gently kiss my bodies every inch better than any lover. Your water cools my feverish skin even as this rot eats my flesh from inside. When soon this raging cancer ends me, I pray near your comforting presence my soul shall abide.

I will miss our talks.

Sincerely,

An old friend soon to be gone