Just Passing Through Poem by Jim Yerman

We'd occasionally see him on our morning walks
that's how our friendship grew.
Now, we smile and we stop to talk…when Big John comes into view.

We chat about our families, the weather…happy to pause for a minute or two.
Happy to spend some time together…as good friends often do.

Big John likes to tell stories and give advice…because that's what old folks do
and he has earned that right…because Big John is 82.

Underneath his stories and his bad jokes (believe me he knows a few!)
he shares with us his experiences…his knowledge…
and a bit of wisdom too.

His best advice is to be kind and find joy in all we do
because, he says, when it comes to life…we're all just passing through.

He says you want to leave behind good memories when you bid this world adieu…
Leave a smile on your friends and family's faces …when you're done passing through.

And this advice as stuck with us because as Big Joh is want to do….
He likes his own advice so much….he repeats it a time or two!

But I know for myself…and I'm pretty sure that goes for Deborah too
We always leave Big John with a smile when our visits with him are through.

It's amazing how he has enhanced our lives
though we only see him for a moment or two…
as our lives occasionally intersect…
while we're all just passing through.