Poetry Corner

The Jimmy Walkers

My Friend

My weekend was in Boston I wished that I could stay A longer time to visit there And shop the streets, Back Bay. I went to do the Jimmy Fund Towards a world that's cancer-free And especially for this marathon I wished it need not be. Even so I wished as much From deep within my heart The reasons for this marathon Never had to start. Thoughts of many crossed my mind And kept me company Especially sad were those for whom I walked in memory. For them I walked quite sadly I miss them in my heart And they are first my reasons I'm at the Hopkinton start. For those who wage their battle Against cancer in their life I struggled up the Newton Hills And recalled their daily strife. I came to do the Jimmy Fund For a friend's loving memory But just as much to honor one Who is very special to me. I carried their spirits with me In my heart and soul and mind And know without the slightest doubt A cure must soon be found. We need a world that's cancer-free A world without such pain Then the efforts of Jimmy's walkers Will not be done in vain. -- Cathy Troisi

I remember when we first met A moment I will never regret. I didn't understand you then But almost six years it has been A mixture of love and hate Most of all respect. We have been through a lot Much more I surely bet. Helped me through thick And made everything else thin. Worked me through problems A word you never did utter. When I fell astray The path you did make clear. Knocked me down Whenever I showed fear. Helped me and hurt me At the same time. Always there for me When no one could be. And remember my friend Sometimes I ignore you But I'll never forget you. -- Christopher Schoneman, former Watkins Glen H.S. runner (author's note: This I write for all those who have ever found the comfort and friendship that comes with their sport.)