with tears in his eyes he says, we're still here

cautiously,

we

lean into each other

and whisper,

can you believe it?

we're still here.

no,

he says,

finishing his glass

as the lights

go up.

a friend for sixty

years.

i don't believe it either

when i think

of grade school

and beyond,

all that we've been through,

the work,

the women,

life,

but say it quietly,

let's not

jinx our luck.

there's more to do,

more days

to share, more rebellion,

more

fun, more love.

here's to you brother,

cheers.