Oh wow, that was really beautiful.  That's how I felt when my brother was paralyzed.  And he didn't even die.  But I remember feeling deep sadness at knowing he, who had so much potential, would never be able to play the trumpet again, or run, or even walk.  It was a sense of loss that I still feel sometimes when I look at him.  You really nailed out that feeling with this poem, so thank you.  And my condolences, also.

I think he likes this very much--except the cutting yourself part. Don't do that! He will always be alive in your heart!

As one who has tasted death's bite, this was very poignant for me.  This is a wonderful tribute to a lost—and very loved—friend.

That was beautiful. Poignant and lovely. I could really relate to parts of it. Beautifully done, Southern.