Poets logo

"When you stop talking about the people you have lost..."

For Tom

By Judey Kalchik Published 4 months ago 1 min read
"When you stop talking about the people you have lost..."
Photo by Arash Khorramgah on Unsplash

Fall's flames freed your soul

Fall's leaves conjure your spirit

Fallen, you still speak.

~~~

For the Vocal Falling Leaves Challenge.

This poem encapsulates the brief flash of fire, warmth, and brilliance that was Tom Brad, my brother-I-never-met-in-person.

Dear Vocal Community; what we lost in that flash on September 27, 2021; that glimpse of something beautiful before it was gone.

I miss you, my friend.

There isn't a piece of fiction that I write where I don't feel you explaining that a short story is a slice that leaves the reader wanting more.

That was you, Tom. You left us wanting more.

FamilyHaikuheartbreakFriendship

About the Creator

Judey Kalchik

It's my time to find and use my voice.

Poetry, short stories, memories, and a lot of things I think and wish I'd known a long time ago.

You can also find me on Medium

And please follow me on Threads, too!

Reader insights

Be the first to share your insights about this piece.

How does it work?

Add your insights

Comments (9)

Sign in to comment
  • Imola Tóth3 months ago

    A beautiful way to keep someone alive in our memories. I'm sorry for your loss 🖤

  • Mariann Carroll4 months ago

    This is a liberation poem for sure .

  • Kendall Defoe 4 months ago

    Selah

  • JBaz4 months ago

    Well said, it is amazing how his spirit still touches our souls and lives. He is always there, lingering with each story I write. Thank you for writing this

  • Mark Graham4 months ago

    What a beautiful way of remembering someone special. Good job,

  • kp4 months ago

    beautiful. ty, judey ❤️

  • K.B. Silver 4 months ago

    👏🍂🖤

  • A. J. Schoenfeld4 months ago

    This is beautiful. You captured the bittersweet emotion of remembering a list friend so well. I'm bookmarking this for later. I need to dive into the other tribute to Tom and go find his stories. He left before I found Vocal but if he left such an impact on a talented writer like you, I must read what I can of his legacy.

  • Steve Lance4 months ago

    Great Poem, and a better dedication.

Find us on social media

Miscellaneous links

  • Explore
  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Support

© 2026 Creatd, Inc. All Rights Reserved.