PAPA-RAZZI

prior to these words,

pictures were in real time as my grandpa was

placed on his favorite sofa seat, to

plunge into the Black Lagoon, but he is no creature.

possibly a cowboy, starring in our own Western stories.

previously a salesman at my favorite childhood spot, the

pretty awesome flea market every Saturday, drizzle or shine.

perfect, or perfect-ish in his own way,

pick any grandpa to go toe-to-toe with mine, i’m going with our beloved Vietnam War Vet who,

protected our peace with power, practicality, and proven courage…as he was scared of nothing. he,

probably feared…losing cold air when young Amira and Desean played in and out that old yellow house…or if “Siggy” forgot to restock the hot sauce for our fried chicken…or the moment he couldn’t

provide, but we swept right in to catch him.

preparing the freshest of foods,

playing his favorite syfy’s, and

purchasing a castle fit for a king.

pardon us Papa, but…you wasn’t going anywhere.

not to the next life or any life no time soon. what else do you need? what else can we do?

proof of his resistance made me complacent…and hopeful..that i had

plenty of time to dine with him again and again and again.

precious was that time…i realized.

pending conversations will now be held at my altar. i’ve told him, i’m happy he was comfortable.

paradise, the reflection of integrity and a fulfilled life, is where i believe he is. I am,

pleased to see us gathered here today. after we

pinch ourselves to see if this is real, we'll celebrate Raymond Lee.

as every star is surrounded by a,

Papa-razzi.